Weston McKennie had United States ahead from a corner in the 39th minute but a rasping long-range shot from Belgium defender Zeno Debast saw the teams go in level at half-time.

Amadou Onana made it 2-1 eight minutes into the second half and six minutes later Charles De Ketelaere converted a penalty to extend the lead.

Substitute Dodi Lukebakio slammed home a superb fourth goal in the 68th minute to emphasise Belgium's dominance and added another nine minutes from time before Patrick Agyemang netted a late consolation for the US in the 87th minute after a defensive slip.

Both countries were using the fixture to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which starts in June, and while the ease of victory will boost Belgium’s credentials, the result gives the co-host cause for concern some three months before the tournament kicks off.

Its defence was run ragged by Jeremy Doku, whose dribbling on the left flank caused frequent panic, and it was largely second in all the exchanges with a Belgium side that coasted over the field.

The US did, however, take the lead when McKennie glided in unmarked to steer home Antonee Robinson’s curling corner.

Doku’s shot in the 45th minute was punched away by goalkeeper Matt Turner, only to find Debast outside the penalty area, who returned it with interest, his shot staying low and surprising Turner as it flew into the net like a bullet.

Doku’s dribbling created the chance for Onana to tuck away with a clever side-footed finish and the penalty that followed soon after was awarded after a video assistant referee (VAR) check found American captain Tim Ream had handled the ball trying to block a shot.

Lukebakio’s first goal was set up by a run from deep in defence by veteran fullback Thomas Meunier but he still needed to cut inside and unleash a curling effort into the top corner.

The fifth goal for Belgium was a tap-in from Timothy Castagne’s pull-back while a defensive slip from Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens and Youri Tielemans allowed Agyemang to reduce the deficit.

Belgium will stay in the States for a second warm-up match against another of the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosts, Mexico, to be played in Chicago on Wednesday (AEDT). The US will host Portugal in Atlanta.