The long-rumored friendly between the United States and Belgium has been finalized and the two squads will square off on September 6 in Brussels. The Belgium Football Association announced the friendly on Friday morning and the U.S. Soccer Federation confirmed it not long after. It will provide the U.S. a stern test against one of the world's cup and coming teams full of young talent, while Belgium will take a break from Euro 2012 qualifying to host the Americans.
USA To Play Belgium On September 6 In Brussels
Belgium are ranked 35th in the world by FIFA, but with Remelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard they are considered to have some of the best young players in the world to go along with one of the best centerbacks around in Vincent Kompany. They currently sit second in Group A for Euro 2012 qualifying, which would net them a spot in a two-legged playoff to make the final tournament if they hold on.
The U.S. are coming off of a disappointing 4-2 loss to Mexico in the Gold Cup final after going ahead 2-0, but remain ranked in the world's top 25. With no competitive matches until the beginning of World Cup qualifying in the fall of 2012, the U.S. will be using the upcoming matches to begin working younger players into the team
There are two FIFA international dates in September, with the September 6 match being the second match of a double date. The U.S. can also play a match the preceding weekend, likely either on September 2 or 3.
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