What happened: Seattle Sounders FC welcomed Belgium's national team to their home training facility ahead of the squad's first session in the city. In partnership with the Puyallup Tribe and FIFA World Cup Seattle, Connie McCloud shared a land acknowledgment and presented handmade necklaces to the visiting delegation.

Why it matters: Seattle is one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Belgium's arrival marks the start of tournament buildup in the Pacific Northwest. The ceremonial reception ties one of the world's biggest sporting events to local Indigenous heritage and the region's growing soccer profile.

What to watch: Belgium ramps up preparations as the World Cup approaches, with attention turning to the team's full training schedule and opening fixtures.