The 'Alisson Pops World Cup Balloon' meme originated during a 2018 FIFA World Cup group stage match between Brazil and Switzerland. A stray red balloon drifted onto the pitch, and Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker promptly stepped on it, causing it to burst instantly. The internet quickly transformed this brief moment into a metaphor for ruthlessly destroying a minor distraction or crushing someone's hopes with cold efficiency. It is widely used to illustrate situations where reality, a specific person, or an unexpected event abruptly ends a positive vibe or a fragile plan.