Nigeria, July 7 -- The Round of 16 clash in Seattle was preceded by controversy after FIFA lifted the one-match suspension imposed on USA striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to feature despite having been sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The decision drew criticism from Belgium and some football officials, but it had little impact on the Red Devils, who controlled the match from the opening whistle.

Belgium created early chances, with goalkeeper Matt Freese denying Timothy Castagne before Charles De Ketelaere broke the deadlock in the ninth minute.

The midfielder finished calmly after Nicolas Raskin's cross exposed lapses in the American defence.

Belgium dominated possession through the midfield trio of Youri Tielemans, Han...