Belgian soccer players sparked a social media frenzy during the 2026 World Cup with a celebration that involved mimicking the famous "Trump dance" after their 4-1 victory over the United States in the round of 16. The match took place on Monday at Seattle's Lumen Field.
The celebration quickly went viral, igniting heated discussions across social platforms due to its clear political undertones.
Belgium's Unquestionable Victory
Belgium dominated the match against the United States, effectively eliminating them from the 2026 World Cup. The Belgians had 14 shots compared to the host team’s seven, with six of those on target against the USA's mere two.
The scoring began with Charles De Ketelaere in the ninth minute, who further extended the lead in the 33rd minute. Malik Tillman scored for the USA in the 31st minute, but Hans Vanaken restored Belgium's lead in the 57th minute. The final blow came during injury time, as Romelu Lukaku sealed the victory with the fourth goal.
This victory was capped by a celebration that captured global attention.
The "Trump Dance" Takes Center Stage
After his goal, Lukaku ran across the field with his hands over his ears, gesturing towards the FIFA box, while his teammates mimicked the arm and shoulder movements reminiscent of Donald Trump's dance at his rallies, set to the tune of "YMCA" by the Village People.
Seen as a symbol of the MAGA movement since the 2024 presidential campaign, the gesture was immediately interpreted as a response to the contentious events of the previous week.
Catch Up Feed summarized the event with a bold statement: "Diabolical: Belgian soccer team performs Trump dance after DESTROYING USA 4-1."
The Controversy Behind the Celebration
On July 1, American forward Folarin Balogun received a direct red card during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in San Francisco. On July 3, as reported by CNN, Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, requesting the card's review.
By July 5, FIFA had reversed the expulsion, a move unprecedented in World Cup history. Trump expressed his satisfaction on Truth Social, thanking FIFA for "doing the right thing and reversing a great injustice!"
Trump openly acknowledged his intervention from the Oval Office on Monday, admitting he initially didn't understand the implications of a red card or that it meant missing the next match.
He also criticized Brazilian referee Raphael Claus: "This referee is a bit suspicious, if you look into his background. I don't want to stir controversy, but very suspicious."
Infantino confirmed the call and defended the decision, citing an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies.
The international reaction was strong. UEFA deemed the decision "unprecedented, incomprehensible, and unjustifiable," warning that "a red line has been crossed." Former FIFA President Joseph Blatter was more blunt: "Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls."
Belgium contested the decision, but their appeal was dismissed. Balogun played the match but did not score.
A Historical Exit and Belgium's Next Challenge
The United States' elimination marks a historic moment: for the first time, all three host nations—USA, Mexico, and Canada—were out before the quarterfinals.
For Belgium, it was a cumulative revenge: they had previously knocked the USA out in the 2014 Brazil World Cup's round of 16 with a 2-0 win in overtime, and defeated them 5-2 in a friendly match in Atlanta in March 2026.
Belgium is set to face Spain in the quarterfinals on July 10 at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium, in what promises to be one of the most exciting matches of the round.
Key Questions About Belgium's Viral Celebration
Why did Belgium's celebration go viral?
The Belgian team's celebration went viral because they mimicked Donald Trump's dance moves, which have political implications and sparked debate among viewers.
What was the outcome of the Belgium vs. USA match?
Belgium won the match against the USA with a decisive 4-1 victory, advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup.
How did FIFA respond to the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun's red card?
FIFA reversed Balogun's red card following a call from Donald Trump, a decision that sparked international criticism and was deemed unprecedented in World Cup history.