World Cup: Belgium narrowly defeat USA

Belgium qualified for the quarterfinals won a hard fought battle against the US in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match played at Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador on Tuesday thanks to two goals scored in overtime.

In first minutes of extra time, Belgium took the lead after De Bruyne finally found the net finally.

Having just subbed-in , Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku rushed into the US box and passed the ball to De Bruyne hitting a low drive after evading several US defenders in the 93rd minute, giving Belgium the 1-0 lead.

In the 104th minute, Mirallas missed a chance after receiving a deadly pass through the defense. Only a minute later, a persistent Belgian team doubled the score as Chelsea forward Lukaku smashed the ball inside US penalty area after an assist by De Bruyne, laking it 2-0.

But the United States showed their much-publicized heart by reducing the score as, in the 107th minute US midfielder Julian Green hit a close range volley in the box to make it 1-2. But it was not enough for the "Stars and Stripes" who, in the end, can only find consolation in the fact that US goalkeeper Tim Howard was named man of the match for his heroic efforts in keeping the game close as he made save after save.

- Thrilling second half

In the 47th minute, Belgium winger Dries Mertens' header attempt was tipped by Howard for a corner.

In the 56th minute, Belgian forward Origi's header towards the US goal hit the crossbar.

Four minutes later, Origi skipped past two US defenders in the box and passed the ball to Mertens to score, but it went wide.

Two minutes later, Origi hit a low shot but Howard saved this one too.

In the 76th minute Belgium were closer to score again and again. Mirallas missed a great chance - saved by Howard - after receving Origi's crisp pass through the defense. Three minutes later Howard blocked Belgian genius Eden Hazard's drive.

In the 84th minute Origi fired outside the box butHoward stopped it again.

Six minutes later Belgian defender Vincent Kompany shot only to find Howard in the way again.

During the first half Belgium looked for overlaps in USA's half and usually exploited the flanks but the US maintained their composure and remained disciplined.

In the first minute Belgium were close to score the first goal when 19-year-old forward Divock Origi took a shot towards the goal after a quick breakaway but US goalkeeper Tim Howard deflected the ball for a corner.

Nicknamed as "Les Diables Rouges" (Red Devils), Belgium are going to play against Argentina in quarter final showdown at Estadio Nacional, Brasilia on July 5.