By Izuchukwu Okosi
Belgium advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an emphatic 4-1 win over co-host USA in the early hours of Tuesday local time.
The round of 16 fixture was marred by controversy following the decision of world football governing body, FIFA to suspend the red card handed to USA striker of Nigerian descent, Folarin Balogun in the USMNT round of 32 stage against Bosnia.
Donald Trump’s intervention for FIFA to review the eligibility of the striker who could have played for the Super Eagles of Nigeria or England attracted global condemnation especially from UEFA and some European Football Associations.
Giano Infantino, FIFA President declined to confirm the assertion that the Federation’,d disciplinary processes remained independent.
Belgium went ahead through Charles De Ketelaere but sn excellent free-kick by Malik Tillman restored parity for USA.
Charles De Ketelaere scored his brace before further goals by the trio of Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku got the victory for the Red Devils.
The Belgium ‘golden generation’ will hope to get an unlikely win against European champions Spain.
Spain eliminated Portugal in their round of 16 game that was Cristiano Ronaldo’s last international game.
