The United States plays Belgium in the World Cup last 16 in Seattle, with both sides aiming to keep their tournament hopes alive on home soil. Coverage from the live match lead-up focuses not only on the contest but also on a controversy involving US President Donald Trump and striker Folarin Balogun. France 24 reports that the buildup is overshadowed by an ongoing dispute after Trump allegedly intervenes to secure Balogun a red-card reprieve, meaning he can continue to feature in the competition. It also reports that Balogun is included in the starting lineup for the match.
Other reporting provides less detail on the political aspect but confirms the match context and the same key football storyline: Balogun is expected to have a prominent role for the USA against Belgium in Seattle. Together, the sources indicate that the last-16 clash is being treated as a major moment for Team USA, with Balogun set to start despite the earlier red-card controversy.
