SEATTLE — Belgium had their way with the United States during their round of 16 match in the World Cup on Monday.
The Red Devils’ official social media account even got in on the act shortly after the team’s 4-1 victory over the Americans.
The site posted an image of striker Romelu Lukaku celebrating his goal with the caption: “Overturn this,” an apparent reference to the availability of United States star Folarin Balogun.
Balogun was cleared to play against Belgium after initially receiving a one-match ban following a straight red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina last Wednesday. He did not record a goal or an assist on Monday.
President Donald Trump acknowledged that he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to dispute the suspension, which only heightened the debate around the already controversial decision by the organization’s governing body. The Belgian federation was allowed to appeal, which it did, with the appeal denied Monday morning.
UEFA, the sport’s governing body in Europe, said FIFA’s decision to pause or erase a suspension “crossed a red line.” Belgium deputy prime minister Maxime Prevot decried the intervention of Trump and US officials, calling it an “incomprehensible decision” and that “it would be a blatant violation of the most basic rules of football and sport.”
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia was among those who criticized the suspension of Balogun’s red card. He commended Balogun for approaching him after the match, and downplayed a question about whether the situation further motivated his side.
“No, it wasn’t needed,” Garcia said. “Regardless of the U.S. starting lineup, what really mattered to us was our lineup. It did not change anything when it came to our dedication.”
–Field Level Media
