Belgium Defeats USA 4-1 in World Cup Round of 16 Amid Controversy Over Referee Decision

Belgium secured a commanding 4-1 victory over the United States in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, advancing to the quarterfinals where they will face Spain. The match took place overnight between Monday and Tuesday, following a controversial red card given to US player Polarin Balogun earlier in the game. Belgium’s official social media account taunted the US by saying "Cancel that" and mocked the American term "soccer" by insisting it is called "football."

Belgian midfielder Charles De Ketelaere, who scored twice, acknowledged that the red card incident may have motivated the team but insisted Belgium’s win was due to their own effort. "We won with or without Balogun," he said. Captain Youri Tielemans added that the decision to allow Balogun to start the match "lit a fire" under the team, emphasizing their desire to send a message on the field. Coach Rudy Garcia praised Belgium as a "wonderful football nation," while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois highlighted the team’s strong performance despite recent doubts about their strength and respect from others.

The match also drew attention off the field, with former US President Donald Trump reportedly intervening outside the stadium. Belgium’s dominant performance and the surrounding controversy have set the stage for a highly anticipated quarterfinal against Spain. The Belgian squad and fans remain energized by their display and the motivation stemming from the earlier referee decision.