​Amid the uproar surrounding the match, Belgium easily dispatched the USMNT and had a pointed message for the country’s president after the final whistle. In the wake of Donald Trump’s intervention, which led FIFA to suspend Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban, all eyes were on Belgium’s Round of 16 clash with the United States. The Belgian camp was understandably furious with the ruling and sought retribution on the pitch, sealing a 4-1 victory over the hosts.
After the game, as Belgian fans celebrated their progression to the quarterfinals, the national team’s official X account posted a message aimed at Donald Trump and the USMNT. Sharing images of Romelu Lukaku celebrating his goal, the caption read simply, “Overturn this,” signaling their wish to see Balogun’s ban lifted. Earlier in the day, Trump himself confirmed that he and the White House had contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to press for Balogun’s reversal.
Belgium’s attempt to appeal the ruling was quickly rejected, with FIFA stating that it had no jurisdiction to overturn a decision already made. With the win, Belgium exacted a measure of revenge and gave itself a chance to rub salt in the US and its president’s wounds for intervening in the tournament. Trump’s involvement in the World Cup had sparked debate, and while FIFA’s dealings with him had already sparked controversy, many felt his influence had not previously affected sporting decisions—until now.
As a result, a notable portion of global fans found themselves rooting against the United States and the USMNT in that match.