DHS Social Media Posts on World Cup Spark Controversy

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) faced backlash after a social media post connected the World Cup to immigration agendas. A photo of the U.S. men’s national soccer team was edited to include the U.S.-Mexico border wall and captioned “Built the wall.” This post followed the United States’ 2-0 victory over Australia and was later deleted without explanation.

DHS did not comment on the deletion or whether the post reflected its official policy. Earlier, another DHS post featuring American players was criticized for using imagery of immigrant players and their descendants to promote an agenda. The post showed defenders Chris Richards, Sergiño Dest, and forward Folarin Balogun, with the words “OUR SOIL.” Balogun, a U.S. citizen by birthright, had scored twice in the 4-1 victory over Paraguay.

Critics highlighted the contradiction in using images of immigrant players. California Representative Ted Lieu pointed out the team’s diversity, noting that Team USA consists of players from various backgrounds and countries.

Did you know our starting forward is a US citizen through birthright citizenship? You’re trying to strip away that right.

The team’s roster includes players with eligibility through birthright citizenship, military service, and immigrant ancestry from countries like Nigeria, the Netherlands, and England.

Legal Battles Impacting USMNT Players

Folarin Balogun’s participation in the U.S. team highlights legal challenges around citizenship. Born in Brooklyn to immigrant parents, Balogun became a citizen when his mother was denied boarding due to advanced pregnancy. His citizenship under the 14th Amendment could have changed if President Trump’s executive order curtailing birthright citizenship succeeded.

The Supreme Court case, Trump v. Barbara, could determine the future of birthright citizenship. Additionally, the Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025, introduced by Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, could have forced dual citizens like Sergiño Dest and Christian Pulisic to choose between their passports.

Legal scholars argue the bill is unconstitutional, pointing out that the Supreme Court has maintained that such citizenship policies cannot strip Americans of their nationality. The bill remains stalled in the Senate.

USMNT’s World Cup Prospects

Under manager Mauricio Pochettino, the United States leads Group D ahead of its final group-stage match against Turkey. Scheduled for June 25 at SoFi Stadium, the team aims to advance beyond previous performances in the men’s World Cup.

Victories over Paraguay and Australia have set up the possibility for the U.S. team to progress. The round of 32 begins on June 28 for successful teams, with matches potentially held at Levi’s Stadium if the team clinches first place in Group D.