Senne Lammens: A Rising Star in Belgium’s Goalkeeping Future
The Belgian Red Devils kicked off their American mini-tour with a friendly international against the United States. This marked the seventh encounter between the two nations, with Belgium only losing their very first match against the Americans at the 1930 World Cup. The question on everyone’s mind: what would happen this time? And would we see any debutants in the Red Devils lineup?
In preparation for the World Cup, the match followed a mid-half break of three minutes, allowing players to rehydrate. While the players took advantage, many fans quickly headed to the concessions.
A Challenging First Quarter
The first ‘quarter’ of the match wasn’t exactly a dazzling display from the Red Devils. Senne Lammens, the young goalkeeper, was called upon to make two crucial saves to prevent falling behind. The American defense remained as resolute as in their previous encounter.
McKennie received a yellow card, but Weah and Doku continued to pressure the American backline. Lammens once again proved his worth, stretching to deny a goal from McKennie at the far post. The home team started with a clear intensity.
Battling for Control
McKennie and Pulisic, teammates at Juventus, linked up well, with Pulisic unleashing a powerful shot that narrowly missed the target. De Bruyne attempted a free-kick, but Cardoso blocked the danger. Robinson emerged as a dangerous player for the US, constantly challenging Meunier. Robinson’s first attempt on goal was expertly saved by Lammens, diving to his right.
Tillman delivered a beautiful ball to Weah, who found Pulisic, but the Milan forward headed over from the penalty spot. The early stages of the match were fast-paced, with both teams pushing forward. Fulham’s Robinson looked for Balogun with a low cross, but Mechele intervened. Meunier crossed the ball back to De Ketelaere, but Ream blocked his shot, and Raskin’s follow-up went over the bar.
Visual Similarities and Tactical Approaches
The similar kits of the American and Belgian teams presented a challenge for viewers. De Bruyne, however, remained unfazed. He accelerated past ex-Genk player McKenzie, but the attack fizzled out. The Red Devils, in their striking Magritte-inspired kit, had kicked off against the United States.
Before the match, the American national anthem was accompanied by a playback guitarist, eliciting laughter from the crowd. Following a motivational message from former US internationals and a fireworks display, the teams finally took the field.
World Cup Simulation
This American scouting mission serves as a crucial gauge for the Red Devils as they prepare for the real challenge. The packed state-of-the-art stadium, the heat, and the mid-half hydration breaks all mirror the conditions they will face this summer. Facing a patriotic opponent adds another layer of realism to this World Cup simulation.
Historical Context
This is the seventh time the Red Devils have faced the USA. The last encounter, at the 2014 World Cup, went to extra time, with De Bruyne and Lukaku securing a 2-1 victory and celebrating with their iconic handshake. They also faced each other in a friendly in 2013, with Belgium winning 4-2 (thanks to two goals from Benteke). The only defeat for Belgium dates back to the first World Cup in 1930, a 3-0 loss.
Team Lineups and Recent Form
The United States were without two central defenders due to late withdrawals, but ex-Genk player Marc McKenzie was in the lineup. Cardoso, a Brazilian-American, posed a threat in midfield, having recently scored against Club Brugge while playing for Atletico. Pulisic and McKennie provided the attack, targeting Folarin Balogun, who has been in excellent form for Monaco, scoring in each of his last five matches.
Belgium’s recent form has been largely positive. Their last defeat was a 3-1 loss to Ukraine in March 2025, but since then, they have won six and drawn three. However, their opponents haven’t been particularly challenging. Their last official match was a 7-0 victory over Liechtenstein, with De Ketelaere and Doku both scoring twice.
Starting Lineups
Rudi Garcia opted for Lammens in goal, giving him his second cap, meaning Sels will start against Mexico. The defense consisted of Meunier, Debast, Mechele, and De Cuyper. De Bruyne was supported in midfield by Raskin and Onana. The attack featured De Ketelaere, Doku, and Saelemaekers, who faced his Milan teammate Pulisic.
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta provided an impressive setting, with a capacity of over 70,000 spectators and a massive LED scoreboard. A 12-meter-tall falcon statue greeted the fans. The stadium will host eight World Cup matches, including two group stage games for Spain.
New Hydration Rule
In line with new World Cup regulations, the match featured mandatory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half. This initiative, supported by sponsors, provides additional advertising opportunities.
US Resurgence
Mauricio Pochettino has revitalized the American team, who are on a five-game unbeaten streak, with recent victories over Japan, Australia, Paraguay, and Uruguay (5-1!). Pochettino believes the US can win the World Cup.
You can find more information about the US Men’s National Team on their official website: USMNT Official Website
