US Coach Pochettino Welcomes Balogun Reprieve Before Belgium Match

United States coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed relief and satisfaction with FIFA's decision to suspend striker Folarin Balogun's red card ban just before the team's crucial World Cup last-16 match against Belgium. Pochettino stated that the decision should be celebrated by those who value ethics and integrity in sports, particularly after what he described as an unfair red card incident in their previous match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“

I think everyone who really looked at the sport and trusts in ethics and integrity should celebrate that decision.

Balogun received a red card for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic, which was initially confirmed after a video review. However, FIFA announced on Sunday that the ban would be suspended, though not rescinded. This unprecedented move reportedly followed a call from U.S. President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Belgium's coach, Rudi Garcia, had expressed disbelief at the ruling, likening it to "April Fool's Day."

“

We were punished enough against Bosnia and Herzegovina, playing with 10 men for 35 minutes after a decision that was completely unfair.

Pochettino acknowledged Garcia's reaction but maintained that the decision was ultimately beneficial for football, emphasizing that integrity and ethics are global principles. He clarified that he was not involved in the appeal process and learned of the ruling shortly before training. The coach also cautioned against mixing political influence with sports rulings, stating, "We cannot mix that."

“

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia had reportedly said the ruling felt like "April Fool's Day".

While acknowledging Balogun's availability as a boost, Pochettino stressed that the U.S. team's primary strength lies in its collective performance, with all 26 players contributing to the team's success. He noted that Balogun, who has been the team's top scorer in the tournament, might even start on the bench. Looking ahead to the match against Belgium, considered one of the world's top teams and a World Cup contender, Pochettino recalled their previous 5-2 loss in a warm-up game but highlighted the potential for the U.S. team to make history and further elevate soccer's profile in the country.

“

He added that while he understood Garcia had to object, integrity and ethics were "global" and "more fair than that is impossible."