Belgium turn controversy into strength
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia insists his team have gained “millions and millions” of new supporters following the diplomatic row over Folarin Balogun’s red card. The controversy, which prompted Donald Trump to lobby FIFA, has left the squad stronger as they prepare to face Spain in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final.
Balogun received a straight red card during the group stage victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but FIFA took the unprecedented step of suspending his ban for one year after the US president intervened. Despite the striker’s availability, Belgium defeated the USA 4-1 in the last 16 in Seattle, with players celebrating by parodying Trump’s dance moves and the federation’s social media accounts posting “overturn this” at full-time.
Garcia revealed he spoke with Balogun to confirm the player bore no responsibility for the political interference. The coach now believes the episode has united fans behind the Red Devils. “The conditions will only be as difficult as they were in the round of 16,” Garcia said. “We had 12 million Belgium fans and now… we have millions and millions behind us… I think that will give us incredible strength.”
Lukaku’s impact from the bench
Garcia highlighted the threat posed by Romelu Lukaku, who has been devastating despite starting just one match at the tournament. The 33-year-old striker has scored three goals and provided one assist, averaging a goal every 50 minutes of play.
Lukaku has netted 93 times for his country, placing him among the highest international scorers in football history. Only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Iran’s Ali Daei and India’s Sunil Chhetri have more goals at national team level. Garcia joked that opponents “quake in their boots” when the Napoli forward enters the pitch.
The striker explained his reduced role stems from a difficult season in Italy where he managed only 64 minutes of game time. “I had a chat with the coach in April and he said I had to be prepared for a certain role,” Lukaku said. “It would be crazy… to start every game. It would be self destructive. It is all about the team.”
Spain test awaits
Belgium will face one of the tournament favourites at Los Angeles Stadium, with Garcia acknowledging the challenge posed by a Spanish side that has yet to concede a goal. The venue is expected to host largely American supporters following the hosts’ elimination.
Garcia remains confident his attack can break Spain’s defensive record. “We are the second highest scoring team at the World Cup,” he noted. “Everyone expects our elimination, but we can prevail.” Victory would send Belgium into the semi-finals and extend a campaign that has already produced memorable drama both on and off the pitch.