The knockout game between the USA and Belgium was overshadowed by controversy over FIFA lifting the suspension of American striker Folarin Balogun. American president Donald Trump personally called FIFA to review the suspension, and though FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasised that the disciplinary committee is fully independent, football's governing body was bombarded with criticism.
Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia led the critique from the national team camp at the pre-match press conference, proclaiming that "he wasn't sure whether the game would be played on July 6th or April Fool's Day."
Belgium eventually outclassed the USA on the pitch in Seattle, beating the hosts 4-1 to bring their World Cup campaign to an end. After scoring the 4-1 in injury time, Romelu Lukaku led the first round of mockery from the Belgians, initiating the so-called 'Trump dance' as a celebration - a nod to the president's interference with the tournament.
The Belgian antics didn't stop there, as footage from the dressing room showed the Belgian squad performing the 'Trump dance' in unison to the Village People's 'Y.M.C.A.', which is also often linked to President Donald Trump.
Belgium continue their FIFA World Cup on Saturday, July 10th, with a quarterfinal match against European champions Spain.
FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 World Cup is taking place from June 11th to July 19th in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament features 48 national teams and is played at 16 modern stadiums.
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