Belgium crush USA 4-1 to reach quarters as Trump-Balogun controversy overshadows Seattle

Belgium swept the United States out of the 2026 World Cup with a 4-1 victory in Seattle, booking their place in the quarter-finals while eliminating the final host nation still standing — though the result was almost secondary to the political storm that preceded it.

Folarin Balogun had been handed a suspension after receiving a red card against Bosnia & Herzegovina, only for a FIFA Disciplinary Committee to overturn the ban following a personal phone call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Balogun was controversially restored to the USA starting line-up, but could not prevent a heavy defeat. Malik Tillman scored a free kick for the Americans, yet Belgium’s quality proved overwhelming: Charles De Ketelaere netted twice, with Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku also on the scoresheet.

USA manager Mauricio Pochettino visibly lost his composure on the touchline, smashing a box of water bottles in frustration after De Ketelaere completed his brace. The Argentine coach had little to celebrate as his side’s defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed.

The Trump intervention drew sharp reactions from pundits. On air, Roy Keane was left visibly stunned when Gary Neville quoted Trump’s account of the phone call, responding with a blunt three-word question: “Is this real?” FIFA, meanwhile, moved to defend Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after Trump publicly labelled him “suspect” for the original red card decision. Infantino stood firmly behind the official, pushing back against the US president’s characterisation. Belgium players added their own commentary, mocking Trump’s direct intervention in post-match celebrations.

Elsewhere at the tournament, England beat Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling contest at the Azteca Stadium. After the final whistle, John Stones and Declan Rice staged a fake injury scare to wind up manager Thomas Tuchel — with Stones grabbing his arm and feigning pain before breaking into a dance as a concerned Tuchel rushed over.

In France, president Emmanuel Macron publicly backed captain Kylian Mbappe after the forward strongly condemned Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla for making racist remarks following a World Cup fixture. Mbappe’s stance drew widespread praise, with Macron adding his voice in support of the French captain’s position.