USA-Belgium: Balogun's Return Sparks World Cup Fire

USA soccer history is being made on Monday afternoon as the men's national team competes against Belgium in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. The match carries immense anticipation, heightened by the return of star striker Folarin Balogun, who was suspended for a red card in the previous game. Belgium's appeal regarding this decision was recently denied.

Facing Balogun and the USA's formidable attack will be Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. While he is one of the world's top goalies, he has the personal support of his wife, Israeli model Mishel Gerzig. The couple, married in 2023 after connecting on Instagram in 2021, has one daughter together, with Courtois also having two children from a previous relationship.

Gerzig has shared her enjoyment of the World Cup experience in the United States. A July 4th Instagram post showcased her, Courtois, and their daughter at the beach in Los Angeles, captioned "Fun days in LA 🩵🌴🌅." Courtois expressed his approval with an emoji comment. The hope is that the Courtois family's American visit will conclude with heartbreak on Monday.