Vue lecture

The World Cup Stood as a Break From U.S. Politics. Then Trump Got Involved.

The president’s call to the head of FIFA underscores that he has yet to find an area of American, or even global, life where he is unwilling to assert himself.

© Tierney L. Cross/The New York Times

President Trump accepting the newly created “FIFA Peace Prize” from Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, last year. Mr. Trump called Mr. Infantino to protest an American player’s suspension.
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Belgium’s World Cup Win Over U.S. Fuels Triumph and Snark in Europe

President Trump had pushed to allow an American player to take the field despite a red card suspension, and the trouncing of the U.S. team was painted as a sign of justice.

© Ruth Fremson/The New York Times

Belgium fans celebrating their team’s 4-1 World Cup win against the United States in Seattle on Monday.
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