Tactical analysis: US receives important impulses through Balogun's deployment against Belgium

After days of preparation without their main goalscorer, the United States experienced a huge boost as Folarin Balogun's suspension was lifted on Sunday. This means that the striker can still play in the crucial eighth final of the World Cup against Belgium on Monday. This forced the Belgian staff to suddenly adjust their preparations: instead of facing replacements like Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright, the Belgian defense must now prepare for one of the most in-form strikers of this tournament.

Looking back on previous meetings between these countries offers little guidance for the current match. While Belgium still has four players left from the 2-1 win over the US in 2014, there is no one left from that time on the American side. Even the practice match in March, in which Belgium won 5-2, provides few clues; the Red Devils have not yet had their best form at this World Cup.

Despite a group win in Group G - on goal difference above Egypt and tied with Iran - Belgium only managed to get past Senegal in the previous round after a comeback and a controversial penalty. Rudi Garcia's team generally maintains control: an average of 57% ball possession and a clear dominance on the pitch. However, the return is not forthcoming, partly due to uncertainty about the role of Romelu Lukaku. When in possession, Belgium often searches through the center, after which Doku and Trossard try to create danger from the wings. Defensively, however, it is vulnerable, especially when opponents create speed and numbers through the sides - as Senegal recently showed.


The United States also plays dominantly, with an average of 58% ball possession. Their strength lies mainly in pressing and utilizing space on the flanks. With Balogun in the striker, Pochettino now has a strong starting point, who not only binds defenders but also creates space for players such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and the emerging backs Antonee Robinson and Sergiño Dest. Balogun's cleverness, his sense of position and direct finishing ensure that defenses do not dare to move forward, which gives the Americans several attacking options.

For Belgium, the concerns lie mainly with defending those flanks; Mechele and Theate are known as passive defenders who prefer to hold their position rather than engage in a duel, which can be dangerous against the fast American attacks. In addition, the Belgian defense often receives little support from midfield, because Tielemans spends a lot of energy to allow De Bruyne to participate in the game.

For Pochettino, Balogun's sudden availability is a godsend, giving him more freedom to use his preferred style of play. His battle plan revolves around pulling the Belgians apart with wing attacks and creating opportunities through combinations through the wing backs and midfielders. The tactical battle between both coaches, with Balogun as the X-factor, promises a fascinating spectacle.

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