The United States suffered a humiliating 1-4 defeat to Belgium in the World Cup, resulting in their elimination from the tournament. Following the controversy surrounding Balogun's delayed suspension before the match, Lukaku, who scored Belgium's fourth goal in this game, celebrated by imitating the "Trump dance."
Before the match, under pressure from Trump, FIFA overturned its decision to suspend American striker Balogun with a red card, prompting warnings that the credibility of football was being tested.
Following Lukaku's lead in imitating the "Trump dance," a wave of mockery ensued. A spokesperson for the Iranian Football Federation stated this morning, "The whole world is now dancing, celebrating the shameful defeat of politics in the face of football." Belgium, enraged by Trump's involvement in the Balogun affair, wrote on their official social media account, "Withdraw this decision."
The "Trump dance" first became popular after he stood still on stage and alternately swung his fists to the rhythm of YMCA music at several political rallies. This move has been imitated many times since, but Lukaku's provocation this time was particularly direct.
Lukaku capitalized on a final defensive error to seal a 4-1 victory, and he appeared to perform a "Trump dance" in his celebration. After the final whistle, the Turkish television commentator joked, "The US team is out... unless something changes in the last minute."
Another Croatian commentator quipped, "Belgium won, but wait...maybe when we wake up tomorrow morning, the White House will call."
When the VAR referee team appeared on Belgian television, commentator Frank Peterken said, "These are the VAR officials. Of course, you could also add Donald Trump from the White House."
An Iranian spokesperson expressed great delight at the host nation's defeat. He posted a screenshot of his team's 0-0 draw against Belgium, displayed alongside the US score, and wrote, "Dance with me!"
Many fans also took to social media to express their opinions. One fan jokingly commented on Balogun's poor performance, writing, "Balogun's decision not to play today is truly wise and noble."
Another fan posted his match statistics, pointing out that he lost possession eight times and failed to complete a single dribble.
Many see this result as a deserved reward for a country and president who attempted to interfere with the rules of football for their own benefit.
Some even joked about the "Trump curse," citing this game, his prediction that the Kansas City Chiefs would win the Super Bowl, his watching the New York Knicks' playoff losing streak, and his attendance at the Ryder Cup—where the European team defeated the American team—as evidence.
