Belgium Celebrates US Player's Suspension Reversal With 'Trump Dance' After World Cup Win

Ahead of the July 7, 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match between the United States and Belgium, global attention focused on the controversial intervention by US President Donald Trump. Trump successfully pushed for the reversal of Paularin Balogun's suspension, allowing him to start for the US team. The decision sparked outrage and accusations of political interference, with Belgium's football association expressing shock and appealing Balogun's eligibility, though the appeal was rejected.

Belgium dominated the match, defeating the US 4-1 to advance to the quarterfinals against Spain. Belgian midfielder Nicolas Raskin said the team felt a sense of injustice due to off-field events and was determined to respond on the pitch. Captain Youri Tielemans echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their focus on performance. After Belgium's fourth goal, several players performed a "Trump dance" celebration, mocking the US president's involvement. The Belgian national team's official Instagram account also posted a sarcastic message featuring Romelu Lukaku.

Belgian coach Rudy Garcia comforted Balogun after the game, stating the player was not to blame for the controversy. Garcia stressed that Belgium's success was due to their own game plan and maturity as a team. Meanwhile, Trump's admission of orchestrating the suspension reversal was described as a "great injustice," with reports revealing White House coordination with FIFA. Critics including England coach Thomas Tuchel condemned the decision as setting a dangerous precedent, and UEFA officials said the intervention crossed a red line.