Folarin Balogun expressed hurt after the United States lost 4-1 to Belgium in the World Cup 2026 last 16 on Tuesday. The striker, who scored three goals in the tournament, started the match before being substituted late. Belgium capitalised on motivation from a controversial FIFA decision that allowed Balogun to play.
Balogun accepted both the original red card and the later decision to let him participate. “I accepted the decision on the red card and 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. As a player, my job is just to go out there and focus.”
The forward admitted Belgium were the better side. “We played well in the other games, were very intense and were able to generate energy with the crowd,” Balogun added. “We didn’t give the crowd a lot to cheer for. That’s the most disappointing thing and the part that hurts the most. We have to wait four years to be in this position again, which is hurtful.”
Midfielder Tyler Adams said the suspension of Balogun’s ban came as a surprise to the squad. “To be honest, we found out at the same time as you guys,” Adams stated. “I didn’t even know there was an appeal.”
