Belgium's World Cup team has relocated its training facility in Los Angeles after complaining about the quality of the pitch at Loyola Marymount University (LMU). The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) filed an official complaint with FIFA, stating the playing surface did not meet minimum standards. FIFA granted the request, and the team is now training at LA Galaxy's facility in Carson ahead of their quarter-final match against Spain.
The move comes amid lingering tensions over FIFA's decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's suspension, allowing him to play in Belgium's 1-0 win over the U.S. The RBFA had previously expressed frustration over the intervention, which was partly influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, a former FIFA World Cup champion praised the U.S. men's national team (USMNT) for its performance in the tournament, despite their Round of 16 exit. Christian Karembeu, a 1998 French World Cup winner, noted that the U.S. surprised European teams with their speed, possession, and talent. He credited head coach Mauricio Pochettino for the team's progress and suggested they could reach the final in future tournaments.
The U.S. had advanced to the Round of 16 with three wins, including a victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but suffered a 4-1 defeat to Belgium. Karembeu emphasized the importance of learning from the loss as the team prepares for the 2030 World Cup.