As Belgium prepares to face the United States in the last-16 match on Monday, the players express confidence in overcoming the anticipated raucous, pro-US crowd in Seattle. Left-back Maxim De Cuyper emphasized the need to "show balls on the pitch" and urged his teammates to focus on their game despite the overwhelming support for the Americans.

The US team has thrived on home support throughout the tournament, evidenced by nearly 67,000 fans cheering them on during their victory over Australia. Full-back Timothy Castagne noted that the crowd's energy could shift if the US struggles, potentially adding pressure to their performance. He stated, "When we’re on the pitch, we’re a bit in our bubble," highlighting their focus on the game itself.

In their previous encounter in March, Belgium decisively defeated the US 5-2 in Atlanta, a match that raised questions about the Americans' readiness for the World Cup. Dodi Lukébakio, who scored twice in that game, acknowledged the growth of the US team since then. However, De Cuyper warned against overestimating the implications of that victory, suggesting it painted a "distorted picture" of the teams' capabilities.

Belgium faces a tactical shift as the US will be without striker Folarin Balogun, suspended after a controversial red card. De Cuyper remained cautious about discussing how they will adapt to the US's changing lineup, while veteran midfielder Axel Witsel noted the need to adjust to the US’s three-at-the-back formation, asserting that Belgium has the tools to exploit their weaknesses in this high-pressure environment.