Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans has shared his thoughts on FIFA's controversial decision to suspend U.S. Men's National Team forward Folarin Balogun's ban during the recent World Cup. The unexpected ruling came after intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump, allowing Balogun, who received a red card in the Round of 32 against Bosnia and Herzegovina, to avoid an immediate suspension.

Controversial Decision

This decision enabled Balogun to participate in the last-16 match against Belgium, which ultimately overshadowed Belgium's decisive 4-1 victory over the United States. Tielemans, who recently transferred to Manchester United from Aston Villa, was part of the Belgian squad in Seattle for that match. He expressed the team's surprise at FIFA's choice, stating, “Originally we were surprised by the decision to revert the red card and his suspension.” He added that while it altered their preparation, the team remained focused and calm ahead of the game.

On-Field Reactions

Belgium's sentiments were evident during the match. After scoring their fourth goal, Romelu Lukaku celebrated with a cupped ear gesture, followed by the team imitating a Trump dance both on the pitch and in the dressing room. The Belgian national team also took to social media to humorously address the situation. In the mixed zone, players expressed their frustrations, with Nicolas Raskin labeling the decision an injustice, Dodi Lukebakio admitting he did not understand it, and Thibaut Courtois stating that Belgium had been disrespected.

When asked if the incident had motivated his team, Tielemans maintained a light-hearted tone, remarking, “The celebrations afterwards were nice and funny, and it was all good.”