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Trump Reverses Suspension, US Soccer Crushed 4-1

7/9/2026

Summary

Trump Reverses Ban

U.S. President Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino, reversing forward Folarin Balogun’s one-game suspension.
After the suspension was lifted, the U.S. men’s soccer team lost 4-1 to Belgium in Seattle.
Belgian players mocked Trump with a “Y.M.C.A.” dance.
MSNBC commentator Chris Hayes said Trump’s intervention “cursed” the U.S. team and noted the president attended Game 3 of the NBA Finals, where New York Knicks lost their game after a 13-win streak.

Summary

EU Probes FIFA

European Commission demanded FIFA ensure fairness and transparency after reversing Folarin Balogun’s red-card.
A letter to European Parliament members called for an independent probe of FIFA’s vulnerability to U.S. political pressure.
Lawmakers said African federations like Kenya (2021) and Nigeria were suspended for audits, while U.S. President Donald Trump secured a disciplinary reversal.
Analysts warned the Parliament probe could destabilize FIFA’s global power if political interference is proven.

Summary

Trump Predicts Defeats

President Donald Trump predicted Kansas City Chiefs would beat Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, but Eagles won 40-22.
At February 2025 Ryder Cup, Trump said “We’re going to get it done” as U.S. fell behind 5½-2½ and lost 15-13 to Europe.
Despite a 2026 congressional claim nation was “winning so much,” Trump’s appearances at Ryder Cup and January 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship (where Indiana beat Miami) coincided with defeats.

Summary

US Falls

The United States fell 4-1, with midfielder Christian Pulisic leaving at halftime due to an injury.
Goalkeeper Matt Freese's error in the 68th minute allowed Belgium to score its third goal.
Midfielder Malik Tillman's set-piece equalised before Belgium retook the lead two minutes later.
After coach Mauricio Pochettino substituted defender Sergino Dest at halftime, forward Folarin Balogun produced no shots on target.
Captain Tim Ream struggled as Belgium dominated possession.

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Trump Reverses Ban

U.S. President Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino, reversing forward Folarin Balogun’s one-game suspension.
After the suspension was lifted, the U.S. men’s soccer team lost 4-1 to Belgium in Seattle.
Belgian players mocked Trump with a “Y.M.C.A.” dance.
MSNBC commentator Chris Hayes said Trump’s intervention “cursed” the U.S. team and noted the president attended Game 3 of the NBA Finals, where New York Knicks lost their game after a 13-win streak.

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