Belgium backed up its words with a dominant performance on the field before taking aim at the United States and President Donald Trump following a 4-1 victory in Monday night's World Cup Round of 16 clash.
The post-match reactions centered on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, whose one-match suspension for a red card in the Round of 32 was overturned by FIFA on Sunday after Trump requested the governing body review the decision. The move sparked widespread criticism across the soccer world, with many in Belgium arguing that FIFA had bowed to political pressure.
After sealing the win, Belgium's official X account shared an image of the team's fourth goal with the caption, "Overturn this," a clear reference to Balogun's reinstatement. Several Belgian players also celebrated by performing the so-called "Trump dance," swaying their hips while moving their hands back and forth.
Belgium midfielder Nicolas Raskin said the controversy had united the squad ahead of the match.
"A lot happened away from the pitch over the last two days," Raskin said. "We felt the situation was unfair, and we wanted to answer it with our football."
Belgium's emphatic victory ensured its place in the World Cup quarterfinals while adding another chapter to one of the tournament's most talked-about off-field controversies.