Belgium demolish USA 4-1 and mock FIFA's Balogun reprieve with 'overturn this' jibe

Belgium brushed aside the United States 4-1 in the World Cup round of 16, advancing to a quarter-final against Spain while taking a very public swipe at FIFA over the Folarin Balogun eligibility controversy that had overshadowed the build-up.

The Belgian Football Association had launched a formal appeal after FIFA suspended Balogun’s red card for 12 months — a decision that came about following a call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino — allowing the striker to feature for the hosts. That appeal was rejected, but Belgium made their feelings clear after the final whistle, posting a two-word message — “overturn this” — on social media alongside images of Romelu Lukaku celebrating.

Balogun started for the USA but struggled to influence the game. It was Malik Tilman who gave the Americans brief hope, equalising on the 30-minute mark after Belgium had taken an early lead. The Europeans reasserted control in the second half, with Hans Vanaken and Lukaku both finding the net to seal a commanding victory and end the host nation’s tournament.

Belgium manager Rudi Garcia was gracious toward Balogun in the aftermath, consoling the former Arsenal forward on the pitch. Garcia reserved his warmest words for supporters back home, who had stayed up through the night to follow the game.

“I think it’s 4am in Belgium right now,” Garcia said. “To everyone who got up in the middle of the night to support us, I’d like to say a huge thank-you. They should be happy and proud of their players today. We showed that Belgium is a great football nation. The players were outstanding and followed the game plan perfectly. We were in control throughout the match. Once again, it was a real team effort.”

The Belgian FA confirmed they intend to pursue the Balogun matter further regardless of the result, though their next formal step has yet to be announced.