Mamdani’s message was not criticised for praising Egypt. The backlash centred on the perceived silence surrounding the American team, particularly with the United States competing on home soil.
One critic wrote: “Estranho você não ter postado sobre a vitória dos EUA” - a reaction that captured the frustration of supporters who expected a mayor of New York to recognise the national team.
Another user went further, writing: “Você é o prefeito da maior cidade dos Estados Unidos. Deveria ao menos mencionar a seleção americana”.
The criticism, as described in the report, remains a social-media reaction rather than an official dispute. Yet football often turns small gestures into larger statements about belonging, identity and national pride.
On the field, the United States have reportedly made an ideal start. The team has secured top spot in Group D after victories over Australia and Panama, leaving the players able to approach the final group fixture without qualification pressure.
Folarin Balogun summed up the mood after the progress was confirmed: “Você sabe, se alguém dissesse antes do torneio que com dois jogos você já estaria classificado para o mata-mata, acho que todos nós aceitaríamos. Estamos muito felizes”.
That success makes the political noise more striking. The American campaign is not waiting for recognition; it has already created momentum of its own.
The United States will next face Turkey before turning to the knockout stage. For Mamdani, the controversy may fade with the next major headline. For the team, another strong performance would make it far easier for the country’s football story to command attention.