On Sunday, the United States Men’s National Team received major news on Folarin Balogun, as it was reported that his red-card suspension had been lifted for the team’s Round of 16 game against Belgium.
Balogun previously received the card during the USMNT‘s win against Bosnia-Herzegovina for a play that many felt was accidental contact with no intent to harm the opposing player. However, Balogun was sent off the field, leaving his team down one man to finish off the win.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino reacted after that game, saying he didn’t feel that sort of play would ever receive a red card in a game, but unfortunately, the USMNT had to proceed without their star. However, since the suspension was lifted, Pochettino has weighed in again.
“My reaction I think is like everyone’s, I really love on the sport and trust on the ethic and integrity, you know? I think we celebrate all that decision. We were punished enough against Bosnia-Herzegovina to play with 10 men, 30 minutes, in a decision that was completely unfair,” Pochettino said, per Fox Sports.
“But it’s not only because I’m the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team, I need to defend my side. It’s only because I think it’s a 100% or 99% …. 99.9%, we all agree that was an unfair red card,” he said.
Pochettino also said he was happy for Balogun and that he felt it was a “fair decision” to lift the suspension. What that means is that Balogun can play against Belgium, but it is like probation. If he causes any issues on the field, he could be sent off and suspended.
“What we need to do is be focusing in our game and be sure how we approach the game tomorrow and perform,” Pochettino told Jenny Taft.
Pochettino was steadfast after the initial red card decision, and today, upon news of the suspension being lifted, that there should never have been a red card handed out. While he expressed happiness that Balogun gets to participate, he also praised his star player’s demeanor and approach before knowing he could play.
The USMNT coach said it was more important to watch Balogun still feeling connected and part of the team during training this past week, despite thinking he might not play.
His return provides the USMNT a major boost, as he’s been their top scorer throughout this 2026 World Cup. Balogun scored two goals in the team’s opening group match win over Paraguay, and then again in the Round of 32 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina prior to his red card situation.
The USMNT faces Belgium on Wednesday night at Seattle’s Lumen Field, with the winner advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals.
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