World Cup 2026: Belgium mock USA with ‘overturn this’ message after controversial Folarin Balogun saga

Belgium took their World Cup rivalry with the United States beyond the pitch after sending a pointed message to the co-hosts following a convincing victory in Seattle.

The Red Devils booked their place in the quarter-finals with a dominant 4-1 win over the USA, setting up a heavyweight showdown with European champions Spain. But the aftermath of the match was marked by a cheeky social media swipe aimed at the controversy that surrounded the fixture.

Following the final whistle, the Belgium Football Association posted the message: “Overturn this” – a direct reference to FIFA’s decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s one-match suspension before the last-16 clash.

Balogun controversy fuels tension

The United States entered the knockout tie under the spotlight after FIFA reversed Balogun’s red-card suspension from their previous victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The decision sparked widespread debate, with critics questioning the influence of external figures after US President Donald Trump confirmed he had contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to discuss the matter.

The intervention led to FIFA removing the Monaco striker’s ban, although the governing body offered little explanation for the reversal.

England manager Thomas Tuchel was among those who criticised the decision, raising concerns about outside involvement in football disciplinary matters.

However, Belgium responded in the only way they could — on the pitch — and then added a final remark online after securing a place among the tournament’s final eight.

Tielemans reveals extra motivation

Belgium captain Youri Tielemans admitted the controversy had increased their determination before facing the hosts.

The midfielder said the squad used the surrounding noise as motivation to produce a statement performance against the USA.

“We told ourselves we had to respond on the pitch. That’s what we did,” Tielemans said.

The victory ended the World Cup hopes of another host nation, with the United States joining Canada and Mexico in exiting during the last-16 stage.

Belgium gaining momentum at the right time

Despite a difficult start to the tournament, Belgium are beginning to find their rhythm under head coach Rudi Garcia.

Their progress has been built on resilience, highlighted by their dramatic 3-2 comeback win against Senegal in the previous round.

That result appears to have transformed their confidence, with the Red Devils now entering the decisive stages of the competition believing they can challenge the strongest teams remaining.

Their reward is a quarter-final meeting with Spain, a test that will determine whether Belgium’s late surge can develop into a genuine World Cup title challenge.