Watch: Malik Tillman makes rare World Cup history, becomes first US player in 60 years with free kick

American Malik Tillman (17) celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal against Belgium. (AP photo) Malik Tillman created a historic moment with another superb free kick at the 2026 World Cup, but it proved of little consolation as the United States crashed out of the tournament after a comprehensive 4-1 defeat by Belgium in their Round of 16 clash in Seattle on Monday at Lumen Field.Despite the heartbreaking exit, Tillman etched his name into the record books by becoming the first United States Men’s National Team player to score multiple goals from direct free kicks at a FIFA World Cup in 60 years. His stunning strike in the 31st minute briefly revived hope for the hosts after Belgium took an early lead, but the Red Devils quickly regained control as they progressed to the quarter-finals.Belgium will now face Spain in the Round of 16 as they continue their quest for a first World Cup title.

Tillman’s historic strike sparks hope

The hosts got off to a nightmare start when Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the eighth minute, exposing the defensive frailties that have plagued Mauricio Pochettino’s side throughout the tournament.The United States found their way back into the contest just after the half-hour mark. Folarin Balogun, whose controversial red card was overturned by FIFA before the match, was brought down about 25 yards from the Brandon Mechele goal.Tillman rose and curled a superb free-kick that easily deflected off Hans Vanaken before beating Thibaut Courtois to level the scores at 1-1. The goal marked his second straight free kick of the tournament, making him the first American in six decades to do so at the World Cup.However, the celebrations lasted barely a minute.WATCH:Just 61 seconds after the restart, Belgium restored their advantage as De Ketelaere headed home his second goal of the evening to silence the home crowd once again.

Belgium punishes expensive American mistakes

In the end, Belgium’s quality and experience proved too much for the tournament hosts.The Red Devils extended their lead early in the second half after a costly mistake by goalkeeper Matt Freese. Attempting to control a long ball, Freese hesitated before inadvertently kicking the ball against De Ketelaere, allowing Vanaken to score from distance after he took kindly to the rebound.Belgium continued to dictate proceedings despite the United States introducing new attacking options.Romelu Lukaku, introduced in the 67th minute, added the finishing touch in stoppage time after capitalizing on Chris Richards’ misplaced pass to score his third goal in as many World Cup games.The defeat means the United States have now been knocked out in the round of 16 in six of seven appearances at this stage of the World Cup, including each of the last four knockout campaigns.