Anti-Trump sentiments have surged online following the U.S. soccer team’s defeat to Belgium at the World Cup, particularly after President Trump revealed that he contacted FIFA to advocate for star player Folarin Balogun’s participation.
Balogun played a key role in the team’s early successes in the tournament but received a red card last week against Bosnia and Herzegovina after a rough play incident. Trump reached out to FIFA President Gianni Infantino in an effort to have the red card and its one-match suspension overturned. FIFA later announced that while the suspension against Balogun was lifted, Trump’s involvement had no bearing on their decision.
After a disappointing match culminating in a 4-1 loss, many Trump opponents celebrated on social media. One user mentioned, “I don’t follow soccer much, but I heard about our loss to Belgium, and it seems unwelcome interference happened regarding that star player’s suspension.” Another user confessed, “Honestly, I’m relieved we lost. I can’t support the U.S. team when Trump tried to manipulate the outcome.”
A different commentator expressed satisfaction over Belgium’s victory, stating, “Even though Trump tried to tip the scales, we lost. Karma is a harsh reality.” Another user noted they’d have considered giving Trump some credit if the team had won but found the entire situation unbearable, concluding with, “I’m glad we lost.”
Some social media posts indicated support for the U.S. team prior to the match. A director known for his critical stance on Trump shared his disapproval, stating, “If America is resorting to cheating, I won’t endorse it.”
Despite the disappointment, the U.S. team will have to wait another four years for their next shot at redemption in the World Cup.
