USA striker Folarin Balogun has broken his silence regarding the controversy that led to former President Donald Trump's intervention in the lead-up to the United States' World Cup elimination.
The striker acknowledged that FIFA's decision to allow him to play against Belgium, despite having received a red card in a previous match, was bound to be controversial. The United States was ultimately defeated 4-1 by Belgium in the round of 16.
"When you're given a red card, usually the protocol is you don't play in the following game," Balogun stated. "Then, when that decision's overturned, of course, it's going to be controversial. So it didn't really surprise me too much."
The build-up to the match was dominated by FIFA's decision to lift Balogun's suspension, a move that reportedly prompted a call from former President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. This saga overshadowed the USMNT's World Cup campaign.
Balogun confirmed he had no direct involvement in the process to overturn his ban. "I accepted the decision when I was given the red card, and then I also accepted the decision when I was told I could play," he said. "There's not too much else I can really say on the matter."
He added that the team's focus was on the game, but ultimately Belgium proved to be the superior team. "All that being said, Belgium were the better team today. They played much better than us."
Balogun was the US's top scorer in the tournament with three goals. Despite the reprieve from his suspension, the team struggled against Belgium, with defensive errors contributing to several goals.
"Today we didn't give the crowd a lot to cheer for," Balogun lamented. "That's the most disappointing thing, and that's the part that hurts the most for me personally. We have to wait four years again to be in this position, which is hurtful... the feeling of disappointment is very difficult to put into words."
Following the match, Balogun spoke with Belgium manager Rudi Garcia, who had previously described FIFA's decision as an "April Fools' joke." Balogun explained that he congratulated Belgium on their victory. "There's winners and losers, and similar to when I was given the red card, you have to handle it in the right way."
Balogun was originally sent off during the US's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32.
