Balogun suspension not reason for US World Cup exit, says coach Pochettino

United States coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed deep frustration with the negative reactions surrounding Folarin Balogun's suspension, asserting that it was not the cause of the team's World Cup elimination. The coach stated that the issue was not an excuse for the team's performance, emphasizing that "the day was not ours."

FIFA had permitted the striker to play in the Round of 16 match, even after a previous red card, following an appeal from the US President. However, FIFA maintained that the decision was not influenced by President Trump. This controversy dominated the final days of the US World Cup campaign, forcing Pochettino to defend Balogun's right to play in a match that ended in a significant 4-1 defeat.

Pochettino found the criticism and personal threats directed at him disheartening. "Personally, I am very disappointed with too many people," he said, accusing critics of mixing politics with FIFA's decisions. Balogun, who was the US's top scorer in the tournament with three goals, started against Belgium but failed to make a significant impact. The US team appeared markedly different from their strong start to the tournament, dashing local fans' hopes of a deep run.