Belgium defeated the United States men’s national team 4-1 in their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match on Monday, ending the host nation’s tournament run. The Belgian squad entered the contest motivated by the controversy surrounding FIFA’s decision to rescind Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension—a move that followed reported intervention from President Donald Trump.
Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku celebrates after scoring his side’s fourth goal during the World Cup round of 16 match between the United States and Belgium in Seattle.
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Captain Youri Tielemans revealed to public broadcaster RTBF that the team convened a meeting after learning of the decision, resolving to “do our talking on the pitch.” Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois added that the squad felt a “lack of respect” during their time in the U.S. and had heard suggestions they could be beaten “easily.” Midfielder Nicolas Raskin framed the result as a form of accountability, stating the outcome proved there is “always a justice somewhere in life” and calling the red card controversy unfair to his side.
Head coach Rudi Garcia, who had publicly mocked FIFA on Sunday, downplayed the controversy’s role as a motivator, insisting the team’s game plan was the primary focus. Garcia also noted he had spoken with Balogun personally, emphasizing that the striker bore no responsibility for the situation. “He’s not the one to blame,” Garcia said.
Following the victory, Belgium’s official social media account posted a pair of pointed messages. One declared, “It’s called FOOTBALL,” with the word “soccer” crossed out. Another featured Romelu Lukaku celebrating his goal—the team’s fourth—with the caption “Overturn this.” Observers also noted that Lukaku and teammates appeared to mimic President Trump’s signature YMCA dance during the celebration.
