The knockout game between the USA and Belgium was overshadowed by controversy over FIFA lifting the suspension of American striker Folarin Balogun.
US president Donald Trump personally called FIFA to review the suspension, and though FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasised that the disciplinary committee is fully independent, football's governing body was bombarded with criticism.
Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia led the critique from the national team camp at the pre-match press conference, proclaiming that "he wasn't sure whether the game would be played on July 6th or April Fool's Day."
Belgium eventually outclassed the USA on the pitch in Seattle, beating the hosts 4-1 to bring their World Cup campaign to an end.
After scoring the 4-1 in injury time, Romelu Lukaku led the first round of mockery from the Belgians, initiating the so-called 'Trump dance' as a celebration - a nod to the president's interference with the tournament.
The Belgian antics didn't stop there, as footage from the dressing room showed the Belgian squad performing the 'Trump dance' in unison to the Village People's 'Y.M.C.A.', which is also often linked to President Trump.
Belgium continue their World Cup on Saturday, July 10th, with a quarter-final match against European champions Spain.
World Cup 2026
The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11th to July 19th in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament will feature 48 national teams and will be played in 16 modern stadiums.
Match schedule and times | Draw | England at the World Cup | Bellingham: England 'shouldn't fear anyone' | How to watch the World Cup | Predictions and odds
Watch the World Cup 2026 live on ITVX via Prime Video here - live coverage, highlights, and analysis.
