Balogun apologizes to U.S. fans after World Cup exit

Folarin Balogun has apologized to American fans after the U.S. team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The forward took responsibility for the team's performance in the knockout stage, acknowledging they fell short.

"My first World Cup. It hurts to wait four years to compete on the biggest stage in football," Balogun wrote on social media. "I want to apologize to our fans. We weren't good enough when it mattered and we let them down."

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My first World Cup. It hurts to wait four years to compete on the biggest stage in football. I want to apologize to our fans. We weren't good enough when it mattered and we let them down.

Despite the disappointment, Balogun conveyed a hopeful outlook for American soccer. He emphasized the continuous growth of the sport in the United States, believing the best is yet to come. "Soccer in America will become even bigger. The belief, the talent, and the passion are constantly growing, and I am sure the best days are ahead of us. The future belongs to those who never stop believing. This moment will make us stronger. Why not us? For the country. For the flag," he stated.

The U.S. team's exit from the tournament followed their loss to Belgium in the Round of 16. Balogun had previously drawn public attention during the competition due to a FIFA decision regarding a suspension.

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Soccer in America will become even bigger. The belief, the talent, and the passion are constantly growing, and I am sure the best days are ahead of us. The future belongs to those who never stop believing. This moment will make us stronger. Why not us? For the country. For the flag.