Balogun admits Trump’s intervention made life harder for US team

Folarin Balogun revealed that former U.S. President Donald Trump's intervention to overturn his red card created unnecessary pressure for the U.S. team during the World Cup. Balogun, 25, admitted he was shocked when he received a red card for stepping on an opponent's foot during a 2-0 group-stage win.

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When something is not intentional it should never be a red card.

"When something is not intentional it should never be a red card," Balogun said in an interview with CBS. However, days before the team's next match against Belgium, FIFA announced the red card had been suspended, allowing Balogun to play. Trump later confirmed he had contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of the card.

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It was just an unfortunate situation and it put a lot more pressure on us than we needed.

The U.S. team went on to lose 4-1 to Belgium, and Balogun, despite starting the game, made little impact. "It was just an unfortunate situation and it put a lot more pressure on us than we needed," Balogun stated. He added that while initially happy to be back on the team, he recognized the controversy it would generate.

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I could almost see within my teammates a bit of nerves because it’s something that’s so unique.

Balogun described seeing nervousness among his teammates due to the unique circumstances. "The closer it got to the game I just tried to focus as best as I could. It was difficult, a lot of outside noise, and that's hard to avoid," he said.

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The closer it got to the game I just tried to focus as best as I could. It was difficult, a lot of outside noise, and that's hard to avoid.