World Cup: Belgium sinks USA despite FIFA’s controversial red card review

Belgium knocked the United States out of the FIFA World Cup with a commanding 4-1 victory on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, ending the co-hosts’ campaign despite the controversial decision to allow striker Folarin Balogun to feature in the Round of 16 clash.

The match came a day after FIFA suspended Balogun’s automatic one-match ban, clearing the United States’ leading scorer to play against Belgium after his straight red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina sparked widespread debate.

The decision followed a public intervention by US President Donald Trump, who confirmed he had personally asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the dismissal, insisting he believed the striker had been unfairly sent off.

However, Balogun’s return failed to inspire Mauricio Pochettino’s side as Belgium dominated proceedings to book a quarter-final clash with Spain.

Belgium in control

Belgium made a bright start and took the lead in the ninth minute when Nicolas Raskin squared the ball across the face of goal for Charles De Ketelaere to tap home from close range.

The United States briefly restored hope in the 31st minute after Malik Tillman’s free-kick deflected off Hans Vanaken and found the back of the net to level the scores.

The celebrations were short-lived as Belgium regained the lead just two minutes later. Leandro Trossard delivered a pinpoint cross that De Ketelaere headed past goalkeeper Matt Freese to complete his brace before halftime.

Belgium extended their advantage in the second half after Freese hesitated while attempting to clear the ball. De Ketelaere capitalised on the mistake before Vanaken calmly finished into an empty net.

Substitute Romelu Lukaku added a fourth goal deep into stoppage time, sealing an emphatic victory for the Red Devils.

Balogun unable to make the difference

Much of the attention before kick-off centred on Balogun’s inclusion after FIFA suspended his one-match ban pending a disciplinary review.

The move attracted criticism from sections of the football community, with many questioning the timing of the decision after Trump publicly revealed that he had requested a review from FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Balogun, who had scored three goals earlier in the tournament, struggled to influence the match as Belgium’s defence kept him largely quiet.

His best opportunity came in the closing stages, but his effort from a tight angle was comfortably saved by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Belgium set up Spain showdown

The victory sends Belgium into the World Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Spain after the European champions edged Portugal 1-0.

For the United States, the defeat ends hopes of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2002.

It also marks the exit of the final remaining co-host nation after Mexico and Canada were eliminated earlier in the tournament, bringing the hosts’ World Cup journey to an end despite the controversy surrounding Balogun’s eligibility.

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