Belgium players say they will need ‘balls’ to nullify home crowd against US
Belgium players are preparing for a high-pressure Round of 16 match against the United States in Seattle. The team remains focused on their performance despite the expected hostile atmosphere from the home crowd.
Why it matters
Captures the psychological and environmental challenges faced by international teams playing in front of large, partisan crowds during the World Cup.
Belgium have been based in Seattle throughout the World Cup, and will play in the city on Monday. Photograph: Steven Bisig/IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters Belgium have been based in Seattle throughout the World Cup, and will play in the city on Monday. Photograph: Steven Bisig/IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters World Cup 2026 Belgium players say they will need ‘balls’ to nullify home crowd against US Belgium play Americans in the last-16 on Monday
Reports on athlete quotes and match expectations without taking a side.
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