The Balogun & Pulisic Factor: Initial reports had Folarin Balogun missing out due to a red card against Bosnia, but his suspension has been overturned. He leads a USMNT attack that has scored 2+ goals in every game so far under Mauricio Pochettino. Backed by a raucous, record-breaking home crowd in Seattle, the USA will look to punch early and test a Belgian backline missing Zeno Debast.
Belgium's Resilient Firepower: Rudi Garcia’s squad proved they are never out of a game after scoring three goals in the dying minutes and extra time to knock out Senegal. With Kevin De Bruyne pulling strings, Leandro Trossard leading the tournament in chances created, and Romelu Lukaku clinical off the bench, the Red Devils have elite scoring options.
Friendly History & Low Threshold: These sides played a pre-tournament friendly in March 2026 that ended in a rampant 5-2 victory for Belgium. While a knockout game carries more tactical discipline, the line for Over 1.5 goals is incredibly safe. A fast start in the first half completely forces the trailing team to open up the field, paving

St. Eloi Lupopo vs Al Merrikh stats in CAF Champions League Qualification

St. Eloi Lupopo vs Al Merrikh Stats