Folarin Balogun’s presence on the pitch for the United States against Belgium had a huge impact on the football world, but he ultimately played a forgettable role in the Americans’ 4-1 defeat in the World Cup round of 16 on Monday.
The 25-year-old striker, who has scored three goals at this World Cup, was shown a red card during the US victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but FIFA lifted his ban for Monday’s match after US President Donald Trump intervened on Balogun’s behalf.
FIFA’s decision led football leaders to question the integrity of the World Cup. European football body UEFA said FIFA «crossed a red line» and the Belgian federation disputed Balogun’s suitability.
“I accepted the decision when I got the red card, and I accepted the decision when I was told I could play,” Balogun said. “I was not involved in the process, and that has nothing to do with me personally.”
Balogun did not score on Monday. He helped set up Malik Tillman’s goal in the 31st minute when he was fouled by Belgian defender Brandon Mechele about 25 yards outside the Red Devils’ goal.
Tillman scored on the ensuing free kick. Just in front of the goal, Balogun waved his arms and pumped up the American fans.
The US has tried to establish Balogun several times. He used his speed several times, but could not get past Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. His best chance came in the 82nd minute, when Courtois crossed for a left-footed effort. Balogun was replaced by Haji Wright in the 92nd minute.
When suggested that Balogun was not a big presence on the pitch, American midfielder Tyler Adams replied: «Was anyone a big presence on the pitch today?»
“We were happy to get the opportunity to play for him,” Adams said. «He tried to be present and a nuisance today, and at times he was trying to get the ball in the back and do what he does. He just didn’t have too many chances.»
Balogun said it was difficult to understand why the US did not play with the intensity the team brought in previous matches.
“Today we didn’t give the crowd much to cheer about,” he said. “That’s the most disappointing thing, and that’s the part that hurts the most for me personally.”
Last Wednesday, during the Americans’ 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, Balogun was red carded by Brazilian referee Raphael Claus for stepping on an opponent’s ankle, leading to an automatic one-match suspension.
After Trump spoke by telephone with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s disciplinary committee suspended the discipline for a year on Sunday.
Infantino said he played no role in the decision of the disciplinary committee, which also fined Balogun $40,000, a fine that can be paid by the U.S. Soccer Federation.
READ ALSO | Controversy over Balogun’s red card: FIFA supports the referee after criticizing Trump
The FIFA president was present at the match, watching from a suite with Pascale Van Damme, president of the Belgian Football Association, and Cindy Parlow Cone, president of the USSF. US Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin sat nearby.
Belgian fans chanted “FIFA Mafia!” during their pregame march to Lumen Field.
Balogun’s three goals tied Landon Donovan in 2010 for the second most goals by an American in a World Cup. Bert Patenaude holds the American record with four in the first tournament in 1930.
Balogun, playing for the Americans in his first World Cup, became the first American player to score two goals in a match in the tournament since 1930. But he failed to lead the US to what would have been its first consecutive wins in the knockout stages. The Americans’ best performance since 1930 remains their run to the quarterfinals in 2002.
Published on July 7, 2026
