Belgium ready to shift attention after World Cup Trump dance troll: 'Different ways to celebrate'

Belgium’s 4-1 World Cup Round of 16 win over the United States didn’t just end on the pitch; it also sparked a public celebration and fresh controversy. In Seattle on Monday, Romelu Lukaku scored Belgium’s fourth goal and sprinted to the corner flag, then joined teammates in a dance made widely known after political rallies associated with U.S. President Donald Trump, including the slow-swaying fist and shoulder rhythm to “Y.M.C.A.” The celebration continued in Belgium’s locker room, with players singing along. Shortly after full time, Belgium’s official X account posted “Overturn this,” referencing FIFA’s decision to suspend U.S. striker Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension after reported intervention from Trump before kickoff. Belgium’s federation appealed and lost, fueling players’ reactions, with captain Youri Tielemans saying they “talk[ed] on the pitch.” On Wednesday, Belgium began preparations for a quarterfinal against Spain, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said he missed the dance due to a required doping test.