The open and highly entertaining game ended 2-1 to the Europeans as Jurgen Klinsmann’s charges bowed out with pride after a hard fought contest.
Kevin De Bruyne and Lukaku’s goals were followed by Julian Green’s for the USA, but it turned out too little too late for the USMNT.
Once again extra time was called upon, but the two goals in quick succession seemed to have won the game for Belgium. The US had other ideas, pulling a goal back and putting Belgium under tremendous pressure for the final ten minutes, but they held out to progress to the next round.
The last quarter final game proved to be far more evenly matched than anticipated, and unbridled attacking intent from the sides ensured a game that flowed nonstop from end to end in a thrilling manner.
Belgium was slightly the better side in the first half, but their profligacy kept the United States in the game, giving them the opportunity to miss some chances of their own.
Under a minute a long ball split the US defence, sending youngster Onigi free in the box but Tim Howard pulled a stunning save.
USA responded down the other end, Damarcus Beasley going on a run, but his cross just found the wrong side of the net.
There were wide gaps in the USA defence that Belgium exploited wonderfully with through balls, but finishing let them down time and time again.
De Bruyne got in behind the US defence, but despite being 1-on-1 with Tim Howard skewed his shot wide. Eden Hazard tried his luck from distance, but Tim Howard was equal to the task.
The Stars and Stripes were not to be left behind, Jermain Jones had a shot nicely set for him in the 33rd minute but he sent it wide.
