Three teams with strong European ties—England, Belgium, and the United States—secured their places in the World Cup Round of 16 on Wednesday, but each faced a stern test that exposed vulnerabilities ahead of the next stage.
England's Narrow Escape Against DR Congo
In Atlanta, England found themselves trailing DR Congo before Harry Kane produced a decisive double to secure a 2–1 victory. The Three Lions had topped their group with wins over Panama and Croatia and a draw against Ghana, but the knockout opener proved far more challenging. Kane's brace rescued his side from what would have been a major upset, setting up a last-16 clash with Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium. For more on Kane's performance, see Harry Kane's Late Double Saves England from World Cup Upset Against DR Congo.
Belgium's Dramatic Comeback
In Seattle, Belgium produced one of the tournament's most memorable comebacks. Trailing 2–0 to Senegal, the Red Devils scored twice in the final five minutes of normal time through Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans. The match went to extra time, and Tielemans converted a penalty—awarded after a VAR review—in the 95th minute to complete a 3–2 victory. Belgium now face the United States in the Round of 16, a matchup that promises intensity. For context on Belgium's path, see France Advances to World Cup Last 16; Belgium Faces Senegal in Seattle.
US Overcomes Red Card to Beat Bosnia
The United States, co-hosts of the 2026 tournament, defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 2–0 in Santa Clara. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring but was sent off in the second half following a controversial red card. Despite being a man down, the US held firm, and Malik Tillman sealed the win with a free-kick. The Americans had started the tournament strongly, including a 4–1 victory over Paraguay. Their resilience will be tested further against Belgium. For a broader look at European teams in the knockout phase, see World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage: European Teams Face Key Tests.
All three teams now advance to the Round of 16, where the margins for error will shrink further. England will need to tighten their defence, Belgium must avoid slow starts, and the US will hope to keep eleven players on the pitch. The tournament continues to deliver drama, with European sides showing both grit and vulnerability.
