The United States is one victory away from equaling its best-ever World Cup performance, having previously reached the quarterfinals in 2002. With their recent win, the Stars and Stripes have secured a spot in the round of 16.
The U.S. will face off against Belgium on Monday, July 6, at 8 p.m. ET, with the match airing on FOX and streaming on FOX One.
The U.S. team is well aware of the significant impact a referee can have on a match, as evidenced by the controversial red card given to star striker Folarin Balogun in the 64th minute of their Round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Initially, Balogun was expected to serve an automatic one-game suspension and miss the pivotal matchup against Belgium. However, in a surprising turn of events, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee ruled that Balogun will be eligible to play in the Round of 16.
USA vs. Belgium Referee
FIFA has appointed Adham Makhadmeh, a Jordanian official, to referee the highly anticipated Round of 16 clash between the USA and Belgium.
Makhadmeh has been a FIFA international referee since 2013 and has officiated numerous FIFA World Cup qualifiers, AFC competitions, and other major international tournaments, including the first leg of the 2017 AFC Champions League final between Al Hilal and Urawa Red Diamonds.
The 39-year-old referee was selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside two fellow Jordanian assistant referees, and has already made his tournament debut in Spain’s Group H match against Cape Verde on June 15.
Makhadmeh also refereed New Zealand vs. Belgium in the group stage on June 26 and England’s Round of 32 victory over DR Congo on July 1, and will now oversee the high-profile knockout match between the U.S. and Belgium.
Known for his calm demeanor and ability to manage high-pressure matches, Makhadmeh has established a reputation as one of Asia’s most trusted referees and will be under the spotlight on Monday in Seattle as the United States aim to make history.
