Belgium thrashed the United States 4-1 in the World Cup round of 16 at Seattle Stadium, and after the final whistle, players including Romelu Lukaku celebrated with a dance routine that appeared to mimic President Donald Trump's signature moves in what seemed a deliberate dig.
Match Overview and Controversy
The Red Devils capitalised on three defensive blunders before adding a fourth late on to secure a commanding win. Tempers were frayed ahead of kick-off after FIFA controversially permitted USMNT striker Folarin Balogun to feature despite receiving a red card in the previous round. Trump publicly backed FIFA's ruling at the Oval Office on Monday and admitted to speaking with Gianni Infantino prior to the lifted suspension. Belgium was incensed and demanded answers while threatening further action, but ultimately let their play and dancing do the talking. Trump was filmed boarding a plane and departing the country as the embarrassment unfolded.
Key Goals and Celebrations
Belgium forward Charles De Ketelaere netted twice in the first half, either side of Malik Tillman's free-kick for the USMNT. Hans Vanaken then slotted into an empty net to put Belgium 3-1 up after the break, before Romelu Lukaku struck a late fourth and celebrated in Trump's style. It was a cruel twist given that Trump and the Balogun controversy had threatened to overshadow proceedings before kick-off.
Balogun Red Card Controversy
Belgium had prepared for the match expecting Balogun to sit it out, only for FIFA to dramatically reverse their decision at the eleventh hour. The decision which resulted in Balogun receiving a straight red card in the Round of 32 proved contentious, while FIFA's agreement to suspend his ban also attracted scrutiny. Infantino's ties with Trump raised alarm bells, with questions emerging over integrity. FIFA deemed the challenge as 'inadmissible,' as Belgium demanded clarification. Belgium subsequently warned of potential action should Balogun feature, and he was included in the starting line-up. 'This leaves all further actions open,' the Royal Belgian Football Association said. 'To date, the RBFA has still not received any grounds for this decision, nor has it received the information it has been requesting since the start of this procedure.'
Social Media Jab
Beyond the celebration at full-time, the official Belgium football account delivered another sharp message aimed at FIFA and the USMNT. 'Overturn this,' the account posted, accompanied by a graphic displaying the 4-1 scoreline.
Next Steps for Teams
Belgium will now meet Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals, with the victors progressing to face either France or Morocco. The USA exited at the round of 16 stage, mirroring 2022 when they suffered a 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands. USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino had hoped to guide the host nation on a deep run, with the semi-finals set as an unofficial benchmark. Pochettino's contract expires this summer and he is yet to reveal his next move. 'In the next weeks, we can start to talk if the federation wants to talk,' he told reporters. 'Right now, it's about resting a little bit, to think, have conversations with the federation to see what the decision is. I'm so happy. We've built a very good relationship, now is not a moment to talk about (my future).'
