In a thrilling encounter last year, Folarin Balogun took center stage for the USA during the quarter-finals, albeit with limited exposure on the pitch. Meanwhile, Belgium stormed past their opponents, securing an emphatic victory in Seattle.
FIFA recently imposed a ban on the match, which took place against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the last round, following a controversial conversation between American President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
READ MORE: US stars hit the field after baffling FIFA decision
The international governing body of football has since denied that this discussion influenced the ban, yet it has faced sharp criticism from UEFA members, who argue that the integrity of the competition is now at risk.
Despite a lengthy suspension from FIFA, Balogun managed to contribute in a brief match against Belgium, culminating in a significant win for the USA. (Image: Kevin Ng/Reuters/Ritzau Scanpix)
Belgium Triumphs
The Belgian football federation threatened legal action if Balogun were to participate, but on the field, Rudi Garcia’s squad, featuring stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku, was ready to shine from the outset.
It didn’t take long for Belgium to assert dominance. Charles De Ketelaere netted the opener in the 9th minute, while Malik Tillman soon put the USA on the board. However, the Europeans quickly responded, with Hans Vanaken extending the lead to 3-1 before halftime, and a confident Romelu Lukaku sealing the match.
Overturn this. 🧏♂️ #USABLE pic.twitter.com/KcBAJp3Z7d
— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) July 7, 2026
As the match unfolded, Belgian players reveled in their victory, sharing their joy on social media with the slogan “Overturn this.” While the game concluded, the final word on the Balogun situation remains far from settled.
Ronaldo Reflects on Loss to Spain
Much like the focus shifted in the USA-Belgium match, attention turned to Portugal as Cristiano Ronaldo faced off against Spain in Texas. Prior to the match, the legendary forward announced that this would be his last World Cup, and after a heartbreaking defeat, Ronaldo left the pitch in tears after a late goal from Mikel Merino sealed Spain’s 1-0 win.
“I have given everything. Winning the European Championship in 2016 felt monumental, akin to a World Cup. I leave this stage with pride,” said Ronaldo, who has scored 11 goals across six World Cup tournaments from 2006 to 2026.
Cristiano Ronaldo exited from the World Cup amidst tears following Spain’s narrow victory over Portugal in the quarter-finals. (Image: Jerome Miron/Reuters/Ritzau Scanpix)
Messi Set for Showdown Against Salah
Meanwhile, the second quarter-final is set to feature an exciting match between Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, taking place later today in Atlanta.
Both teams previously fought hard, playing through 120 minutes in their respective last-16 clashes against the Green Islands and Australia, making tonight’s contest one to watch. Canada will also see Switzerland clash with Colombia.
