The United States men’s national team (USMNT) is close to reaching a World Cup quarterfinal for the first time since 2002. Standing between them and this achievement is Belgium, their opponent in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup.

Belgium has a history of halting the USMNT’s progress. At the 2014 World Cup, Belgium defeated the U.S. 2-1 in the Round of 16. More recently, Belgium inflicted a 5-2 defeat on the U.S. in an international friendly in March.

USMNT defender Alex Freeman, 21, acknowledges Belgium’s quality, but remains undeterred. Speaking to Roger Bennett for ‘Men in Blazers,’ Freeman said, ‘We know the quality they have. They’re a very good team and have been recognized for years. For us, it’s about playing our way—pressing a lot, controlling the ball, and being direct.’

Although Freeman was ‘so young’ during the 2014 loss to Belgium, he knows some teammates may remember it. Nonetheless, he stated, ‘I think we just don’t feel like we want to bring it up. We want a different impact and result. At the end of the day, we want revenge, not only for 2014, but for the loss a couple of months ago. The question is how can we get that revenge and secure a win?’

The USMNT and Belgium will face each other in Seattle on Monday, July 6. Freeman’s full ‘Men in Blazers’ appearance is available for viewing below.