Belgium Thrashes U.S. 4-1 as Courtois Rebukes Trump Over FIFA Intervention

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 8

4-1 over the United States sent Belgium into the World Cup quarterfinals after a round-of-16 match overshadowed by FIFA’s late decision to clear Folarin Balogun to play.
Courtois said Belgium felt “disrespected” in the United States and framed the win as a response to claims the Americans could beat Belgium easily.
Trump had said he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to seek a review after Balogun’s red card, and FIFA then suspended the automatic ban despite broad backlash.
Belgium had warned before kickoff that Balogun’s inclusion left “all further actions open,” and after the final goal players mocked Trump with his signature dance on the field and in the locker room.
Courtois added Belgium targeted the U.S. aggressively from the start and said he had been more confident against the Americans than in the previous round against Senegal.