Folarin Balogun Starts Despite Controversy
Folarin Balogun was named in the USA's starting XI to take on Belgium in the round of 16 at the World Cup on Tuesday morning, despite seeing red against Bosnia & Herzegovina. The striker saw his one-game suspension delayed by one year by a FIFA Disciplinary Committee after a personal phone call from Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Belgium Beat USA 4-1
Belgium ran out 4-1 winners over the World Cup co-hosts in Seattle to make the quarter-finals of the tournament. Malik Tilman found the scoresheet for USA, but his goal came as all but a consolation following a Charles De Ketelaere brace and goals from Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku.
Pochettino's Frustration on Full Display
USA manager Mauricio Pochettino lost all composure as he watched helplessly from the sidelines as his team crumbled defensively. The Argentine was spotted smashing a box of Powerade bottles as De Ketelaere bagged his brace.
Keane Questions Trump
Roy Keane was staggered by Trump's explanation over calling Infantino as he asked: "Is this real?" when Gary Neville quoted the President's words back to him.
Tuchel Pranked in Viral Video
After England's 3-2 win over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, John Stones and Declan Rice pranked their manager in light-hearted fashion. The Three Lions stars faked an injury scare on Thomas Tuchel in the post-match celebrations by getting Stones to grab his arm as if he was in pain before breaking out in dance as their head coach went to check on them.
Mbappe Has Nation's Support
Emmanuel Macron publicly praised the French national team's captain, Kylian Mbappe, after taking a first stand against racism. The striker condemned Paraguayan senator, Celeste Amarilla, for making offensive and racist remarks in the aftermath of a World Cup clash.
FIFA Rush to Referee's Defence
FIFA made the decision to stand by Raphael Claus in the wake of a growing storm surrounding Balogun's sending off against Bosnia & Herzegovina. Infantino had the Brazilian's back despite Trump branding the official "suspect" for his controversial call during the match.
Trump Mocked by Belgium
After a convincing win, several Belgian players were spotted poking fun at political drama in America. Select members of the team mocked Trump's direct boardroom intervention and the compliance of FIFA, which ultimately couldn't save the tournament co-hosts from leaving the tournament.
Roberto Martinez Makes Shock Exit
Roberto Martinez immediately stepped down as Portugal manager in the wake of a 1-0 loss to Spain in the round of 16 at the World Cup, which marked the nation's early exit. A late goal from Mikel Merino saw the Spaniards make the quarter-finals, as Martinez called time on a three-and-a-half-year tenure.
