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A new acronym has been given to FIFA: Fix It For America.
This new abbreviation is trending online, especially following the scandal that has rocked the World Cup and added to FIFA’s less than stellar reputation.
Indeed, the Belgium vs US game was overshadowed by FIFA’s decision to overturn a red card received by US striker Folarin Balogun – a move which Donald Trump had a hand in, as he admitted to having spoken with FIFA president Gianni Infantino about reviewing the red card.
There have been widespread calls for Infantino to resign, and football fans the world over have decried how Infantino’s FIFA is a corrupt organisation which bends to the will of politicians.
Still, justice prevailed according to fans and social media users, as Belgium secured its place in the quarterfinals after beating the US 4-1.
Belgian player Nicolas Raskin claimed “justice” was served after the victory, which signals the end of the US’ World Cup campaign, making it the last host country to be eliminated.
Unlike Trump and the supposedly politically neutral FIFA, Belgium showed love for the game and great integrity.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia played down the scandal in his post-match media conference and shared that he spoke with US player Balogun after the final whistle.
“He came to talk to me, I really like that,” Garcia said. “It’s not his fault, he’s not the one to blame and that’s what I told him.”
However, Belgium players did issue a cheeky statement after their victory, as they appeared to troll Trump with the celebration of their final goal.
The players gathered around the corner flag and started imitating Trump’s viral “dancing” – a clear attempt to call out Trump and his meddling in the game.
Immediately after the match, the Belgian Red Devils official X account also posted a dig at Trump and FIFA with the caption: “Overturn this”.
Social media users also celebrated in some creative ways. Check out some of the best and funniest reactions below:
By knocking out the US, Belgium extends their unbeaten streak to 18 games. They face Spain in Los Angeles on Friday 10 July.