Amadou Onana’s World Cup End Due To ACL Tear

Belgium Advances Past USA in Round of 16

Belgium secured a decisive 4‑1 victory over the USMNT in Seattle, sending the hosts home early. Charles De Ketelaere netted a brace, while Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku added the other goals. Lukaku honored Onana after scoring in stoppage time, holding up the midfielder’s number 24 jersey as the seriousness of the injury became clear. Belgium now faces Spain, who beat Portugal 1‑0, in a rematch slated for Tuesday.

Onana’s Injury Cuts Short Tournament Run

The 24‑year‑old Onana was withdrawn in the 21st minute of the match after suffering a knee injury. Subsequent imaging confirmed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, ending his World Cup involvement. Coach Rudi Garcia expressed dismay, stating, “I’m afraid Amadou will miss the next game in the tournament. I hope not, but I have a feeling he won’t be playing.” He added that the injury is “serious” and not “good news for him or for us as a team.”

Onana appeared on crutches with a knee brace after the game, but was seen smiling with teammates. He had featured in all but one of Belgium’s World Cup matches prior to the knockout stage. His absence leaves a gap in midfield as Belgium prepares for the clash against Spain.

Villa Faces Squad Fallout

Aston Villa will be without Onana for the upcoming Premier League season after his ACL rupture. The Belgian midfielder started 25 league games last term and contributed 12 appearances in Villa’s Europa League triumph. Manager Unai Emery’s plans now require adjustments, especially with midfield depth already shaken by Boubacar Kamara’s January knee injury.

Onana had been linked to start alongside Youri Tielemans and Kamara, but the latest setback forces the club to search for cover. Villa’s medical staff will monitor rehabilitation closely, aiming for a return in the following season.

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The round of 16 finishes on Tuesday with Argentina facing Egypt and Switzerland taking on Colombia, setting up the quarter‑finals next week. The Belgian coach will need to devise a game plan without Onana while Spain looks to capitalize on their recent dominance. Fans will watch closely as the tournament moves into its knockout phase.