Trump made the remarks while addressing the controversy surrounding the US team's preparations for Monday's knockout match in Seattle.

United States President, Donald Trump, has said the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium would be viewed as "rigged" if forward Folarin Balogun is prevented from playing, insisting both teams must be allowed to field their strongest line-ups

Trump made the remarks while addressing the controversy surrounding the US team's preparations for Monday's knockout match in Seattle.

He spoke during an Oval Office event in Washington marking the launch of "Trump Accounts," an investment scheme for children.

The president argued that the integrity of the match depended on both sides having their best players available, amid ongoing debate over Balogun's eligibility.