​After all the pre-game controversy surrounding the Folarin Balogun situation, it was the Red Devils of Belgium who answered with a forceful performance, ending any lingering hopes the USA had of a fairy-tale World Cup run. Many had predicted that the USMNT, despite some strong results to date, would falter the moment they faced a team with higher quality. Yet Belgium had not previously shown that vulnerability before their Round of 16 clash, and they were moments away from bowing out to Senegal. Now, just days after that remarkable turnaround against West Africa, the mood inside the Belgian camp and among the fans has shifted dramatically. Whether inspired by a sense of injustice they felt FIFA had inflicted on them, or by the victory over Senegal acting as a catalyst, Rudi Garcia’s side seems to have found a new spark. The result was a resounding 4-1 victory as Belgium outclassed the USA in virtually every department.
Belgium found themselves with broad neutral support, and their players clearly fed off that energy in their celebrations, even imitating a dance associated with a prominent political figure. There were discussions about FIFA allowing Balogun to play, but in the end the real justice was served on the pitch by the Red Devils. The debate over political interference is not new in football, and critics have pointed to perceived hypocrisy in how this situation was handled. Whether FIFA has escaped scrutiny by virtue of the result remains to be seen, but the Belgian FA has signaled that they will not let the matter rest without a formal challenge. For the good of the game and the integrity of the World Cup moving forward, it is vital that the broader football community support Belgium as they push FIFA to account for what happened.
Looking ahead, Belgium now face Spain in the quarterfinals. The Spaniards start as favorites, but Garcia’s side may have found a blueprint for success. The Frenchman has already shown a willingness to make bold decisions, including benched lineups that omitted Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku. Spain have yet to concede a goal in this tournament, so finding a way through that defense will be crucial for Belgium. Portugal’s performance in the group stage was modest, yet Belgium still have Romelu Lukaku waiting on the bench. His impact as a substitute has been outstanding this tournament, and perhaps he could be the key to unlocking Spain if the game remains tied when he enters.
The two teams have a World Cup history at this stage. In 1986, a 1-1 draw ended with Belgium triumphing on penalties, sending them to a semi-final against Argentina, who defeated Belgium 2-0. Argentina would then beat West Germany in the final, which had eliminated France in the semi-finals. A victory over Spain could set up a potential clash with France in the semi-finals, adding even more drama to what lies ahead for the Red Devils.
Given how Belgium’s tournament began, this run has transformed their outlook and raised expectations for what they can achieve. The momentum, the tactical shifts under Garcia, and the willingness to pivot when necessary have reshaped how supporters and neutrals view this team’s prospects. If they continue to ride this wave, they could become one of the defining stories of the tournament, potentially rewriting the narrative around their route to the latter stages and beyond.