Belgium eliminated the United States Men's National Team from the World Cup with a 4-1 victory at Seattle Stadium on Monday, following a controversial eligibility decision involving U.
S. striker Folarin Balogun.
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Charles De Ketelaere scored twice in the first half for Belgium, while Malik Tillman converted a free kick for the hosts.
Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku sealed the win after the break.
Following the final goal, the Belgian squad celebrated by imitating the signature rally dance of U. S.
President Donald Trump, who had reportedly intervened to overturn Balogun's automatic suspension after a prior red card.
Belgian Federation Protests Eligibility Decision
The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed strong disapproval before the match regarding FIFA's late decision to suspend Balogun's punishment, as reported by The Athletic.
The federation actively sought clarification regarding the governing body's sudden reversal, stating it was "astonished" and would consider "all potential options."
Belgian officials warned of further legal or administrative steps if the American striker participated in the Round of 16 fixture, saying "all further actions open."
The organization criticized the lack of communication from football's governing body regarding the disciplinary policy shift.
"To date, the RBFA has still not received any grounds for this decision, nor has it received the information it has been requesting since the start of this procedure for a copy of the decision and the motivation declaring the player eligible as well as the referee's report.
