Belgium players say they will need ‘balls’ to nullify home crowd against US
Summary
Belgium’s soccer team is preparing to play the United States in the World Cup round of 16 in Seattle, where a large, supportive crowd for the US is expected. Belgium players say they are not intimidated by the atmosphere and are focused on playing their own game, despite the US missing a key striker due to suspension.Key Facts
- The match is in Seattle, with around 80,000 spectators expected, many supporting the US.
- Belgium’s left-back Maxim De Cuyper said they must show courage ("balls") and focus on their own game.
- The US has strong home support, including about 67,000 fans at a previous match against Australia in Seattle.
- Belgium lost to the US 5-2 in a friendly game in March but believe the World Cup match will be different.
- Some Belgium players note many Americans in the squad were not in that March friendly.
- US striker Folarin Balogun is suspended and will miss the match due to a red card.
- Belgium midfielder Axel Witsel said they will need to adapt to the US’s formation and believe they have the tools to challenge the US.
- Belgium players try to block out the crowd noise by focusing during the game.
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