Infantino fires back at Trump as Ronaldo, Henderson and Balogun dominate World Cup day

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has publicly responded to remarks made by US President Donald Trump as controversy over Folarin Balogun’s eligibility continued to overshadow the 2026 World Cup’s last-16 stage.

Balogun was permitted to represent the United States against Belgium despite having received a red card, a decision that drew widespread criticism and prompted Trump to weigh in. Infantino’s rebuttal adds a political dimension to what is already a contentious eligibility debate at a tournament co-hosted by the United States.

On the pitch, England advanced to the quarter-finals after a dramatic 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City on Sunday, setting up a last-eight tie against Norway. The win, however, came at a cost: midfielder Jordan Henderson sustained an injury during the post-match celebrations, and his availability for the Norway fixture remains uncertain.

The other major fixture of the day pits Spain against Portugal in the last-16, with Cristiano Ronaldo expected to start for the Portuguese. The winner will advance to face either the United States or Belgium in the quarter-finals, making it one of the most consequential matches of the round.

England’s path through the tournament has gathered momentum, but the Henderson situation will be closely monitored by manager and medical staff ahead of what promises to be a demanding knockout schedule. His role in midfield has been central to the Three Lions’ progress, and any prolonged absence would represent a significant blow.

The Balogun eligibility ruling continues to generate debate among football administrators and fans alike, with questions remaining over the consistency of FIFA’s application of its own regulations at a tournament it is simultaneously hosting across North America.