SEATTLE (AP) — Folarin Balogun's presence on the field for the United States team significantly influenced the soccer world, despite the Americans suffering a 4-1 defeat against Belgium in the World Cup round of 16 on Monday. The 25-year-old striker, who had previously netted three goals in the tournament, experienced a whirlwind of controversy leading up to the match, as FIFA had lifted a suspension imposed after he received a red card during the U.S. victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina.
U.S. President Donald Trump's intervention reportedly prompted FIFA's decision to allow Balogun to play. This action raised eyebrows among soccer leaders, with UEFA claiming that FIFA "crossed a red line" and Belgium's soccer federation questioning the legitimacy of Balogun's eligibility for the match. Balogun himself stated, “I accepted the decision when I was given the red card, and I accepted the decision when I was told I was allowed to play.” He emphasized that he had no involvement in the matter and that it did not pertain to him personally.
During the match, Balogun did not manage to score, but he was instrumental in setting up Malik Tillman's goal, which came in the 31st minute after he was fouled by Belgium's Brandon Mechele outside the penalty area. Tillman converted the subsequent free kick, partially thanks to Balogun's effort to energize the American crowd while celebrating. Despite multiple attempts to get Balogun the ball, he faced stiff resistance from Belgium’s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. His most notable opportunity to score came in the 82nd minute, only to be thwarted by Courtois once again. Balogun was substituted for Haji Wright in the 92nd minute.
Responding to critiques of Balogun's performance, U.S. midfielder Tyler Adams remarked, “Was anyone a major presence on the field today?” He acknowledged Balogun's efforts, stating, “We were happy that we had the opportunity for him to play. He tried today to be a presence and a nuisance.” Balogun himself expressed disappointment over the team's overall intensity during the match, saying, “Today we didn’t give the crowd a lot to cheer for, and that’s the most disappointing thing for me personally.”
Balogun had previously received a red card for stepping on an opponent's ankle during a game against Bosnia-Herzegovina, which typically would result in a one-game suspension. However, after Trump's communication with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the disciplinary committee agreed to lift the suspension on the eve of the match. Infantino stated that he had no involvement in the committee's decision and mentioned that Balogun received a $40,000 fine, which could be covered by the U.S. Soccer Federation. The FIFA president attended the match, alongside Pascale Van Damme, chair of the Belgian Football Association, and Cindy Parlow Cone, president of the USSF.
As the match progressed, Belgium’s fans demonstrated their displeasure with FIFA, chanting “FIFA Mafia!” during their pregame march. With three goals scored during the tournament, Balogun equaled the tally of Landon Donovan in 2010, marking him as one of the most successful American players in World Cup history. Although he did not manage to lead the U.S. to consecutive knockout-stage victories, Balogun's performance in his first World Cup will be remembered, especially as he became the first U.S. player to score two goals in a match since 1930. However, the U.S. team's best World Cup performance remains a quarterfinal run in 2002, a milestone the team fell short of achieving this time.
