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last mo.

Spain, Belgium and Argentina Advance as World Cup Drama Shifts From Pitch to Governance

FIFA is under fire after President Donald Trump’s reported intervention in Folarin Balogun’s case and U.S. authorities opened a developing probe into the Argentine FA’s finances.

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Coupe du monde 2026 : «Je ne vais pas considérer l'arbitre comme un adversaire», affirme Didier Deschamps [FRANCK FIFE / AFP]
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Overview

  • Spain reached the quarterfinals after Mikel Merino’s 91st-minute goal defeated Portugal, a match after which coach Roberto Martinez confirmed he had managed his last game for Portugal.
  • Belgium beat the United States 4-1 to eliminate the host nation in a match overshadowed by FIFA’s decision to reinstate Folarin Balogun following a reported call from President Donald Trump.
  • Argentina recovered from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 with Lionel Messi instrumental in the comeback, and Egypt’s coach and players publicly accused referee François Letexier and VAR of biased decisions.
  • U.S. media and Argentine outlets report that FBI agents and federal prosecutors have opened a developing inquiry into the Argentine Football Association’s international financial flows, with no charges filed so far.
  • The pileup of disputed officiating calls, political intervention allegations and the U.S. financial probe has intensified scrutiny of FIFA’s independence and could prompt formal complaints, governance reviews and legal fights as the tournament moves into the quarterfinals.