Belgium’s national football team used a two-word social media post to mock the United States and President Donald Trump following their dominant World Cup victory over the U.S. The Belgians defeated the U.S. 4-1 in a Round of 16 match.
The post came after controversy surrounding a one-match ban for American player Folarin Balogun, which was controversially overturned after Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The striker had received a red card in a previous match.
Despite protests from the Belgian football federation and UEFA, FIFA cleared Balogun to play in the match against Belgium. The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) had appealed the decision, stating they had not received the grounds for FIFA's ruling and that the decision was a breach of FIFA regulations. The RBFA had informed the United States Soccer Federation that they contested Balogun's eligibility.
Within 20 minutes of the final whistle, the Belgian team's official X account posted, "Overturn this," accompanying the text with a photo of player Romelu Lukaku celebrating a goal. This was seen as a pointed reference to FIFA's decision to suspend Balogun's ban, reportedly at the behest of President Trump.
Further adding to the taunt, Belgian players were observed mimicking President Trump's signature hand-jerking, hip-shimmying dance moves, made famous during his 2024 election campaign. The players gathered in a circle and performed the dance after Lukaku scored the team's fourth goal in stoppage time.
President Trump confirmed on Monday that he had telephoned FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun's ban. "I asked for a review by FIFA," Trump stated, adding that he believed the original red card was not a foul and that Balogun was a vital player for the U.S. team.
Infantino acknowledged receiving the call from Trump, stating that he regularly discusses World Cup matters with heads of state. He explained that FIFA's independent judicial bodies were handling the case and that the decision would be made by the competent bodies.
Belgium's coach, Rudi Garcia, offered a critical assessment of the situation during a press conference, questioning the timing of the decision and stating that the team was defending football's ethics and history. When asked about allegations of Trump's influence, Garcia deflected, suggesting questions about it should be directed to the FA. The RBFA indicated that they were considering legal action and referring the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.