Belgium scored twice in extra time to beat United States in a thrilling encounter that saw them qualify for the quarter finals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup at Arena Fonte Nova.
Tim Howard was to thank for 15 breathtaking saves that kept the determined Americans in contention until Kevin De Bruyne’s goal in the 93rd minute.
Divock Origi’s replacement, Romelu Lukaku won the ball down by the right touchline before Kevin De Bruyne slotted the ball into the bottom left corner.
Lukaku’s influence grew more stronger and effective as the forward forced two saves from Tim Howard just before doubling Belgium’s lead in the 104th minute.
De Bruyne set up Lukaku from the left flank after playing the ball between Cameron and Besler. Lukaku drilled home to make it two.
United States pulled one back after the first half of extra time through substitute Julian Green. The 19-year-old volleyed home off Bradley’s fine pass from eight yards in the 106th minute before Thibaut Courtois denied Clint Dempsey an equalizer with a fine save.
The Americans were eliminated in extra time at this stage for the second consecutive World Cup after losing to Ghana in 2010. The Belgians will face Argentina on Saturday.