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Folarin Balogun criticized for performance in World Cup match against Belgium

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 2:04 AM

Last updated Jul 7, 2026

Folarin Balogun criticized for performance in World Cup match against Belgium

Summary

Folarin Balogun faced backlash following the USA's round-of-16 World Cup match against Belgium on July 6, 2026. Despite a suspension from a previous match being revised, Balogun struggled, recording only ten touches in the first half and a lackluster overall performance. The USA lost the match 1-4, leading to criticism of Balogun and further scrutiny of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee's decision influenced by US President Donald Trump. The incident has sparked significant online mockery as the team exits the tournament.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•USA lost to Belgium 1-4 in World Cup round-of-16 match.
•Folarin Balogun had only ten touches in the first half.
•Balogun's suspension was controversially lifted by Trump’s initiative.
•Backlash followed Balogun's performance and the team's exit.
•Online mockery arose regarding Balogun's inability to perform.

Latest Updates

2:04 AMYahoo Sports — Nice of him not to play: Balogun appearance mocked online

What they're saying

"
Actually, he should not have been playing at all: After his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, US forward Folarin Balogun was suspended for the round-of-16 match against Belgium.But at the initi...
— Yahoo Sports

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Soccer