Folarin Balogun discusses distractions from Trump's FIFA call before World Cup loss
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 5:01 PM
Last updated Jul 14, 2026
Folarin Balogun acknowledged distractions prior to the USMNT's match against Belgium during the FIFA World Cup. Speaking with CBS Mornings, Balogun reflected on the controversy surrounding his red card, which was overturned following intervention from President Donald Trump. He noted that the situation created nerves within the team as they prepared for the round of 16 match. Ultimately, the USMNT lost 4-1 to Belgium, with Balogun indicating that while the team faced challenges, they maintained professionalism throughout the ordeal. The USMNT's journey in the tournament featured Balogun's impressive debut, scoring three goals. Balogun expressed hope for the continuation of coach Mauricio Pochettino, whose future remains uncertain after their World Cup exit.
- •Balogun discusses distractions from Trump's intervention before Belgium match.
- •USMNT loses 4-1 to Belgium in the round of 16.
- •Balogun scored three goals during his World Cup debut.
- •Future of coach Pochettino is uncertain after the tournament.
- •Team needs to qualify for the 2030 World Cup.
- 5:44 PMYahoo Sports — Folarin Balogun opens up on Donald Trump's FIFA intervention ahead of USMNT's World Cup exit
- 5:01 PMCBS Sports — USMNT's Folarin Balogun admits Donald Trump's FIFA World Cup intervention was, 'a lot of outside noise'
"Folarin Balogun has admitted that President Donald Trump's intervention in his red card suspension caused significant controversy for the U.S. Men's National Team during the FIFA World Cup
"Speaking with CBS Mornings, the star forward admits the controversy surrounding his overturned suspension created a difficult distraction ahead of the team's loss to Belgium
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 14, 2026, 5:44 PMFolarin Balogun opens up on Donald Trump's FIFA intervention ahead of USMNT's World Cup exit
Folarin Balogun has admitted that President Donald Trump's intervention in his red card suspension caused significant controversy for the U.S. Men's National Team during the FIFA World Cup
- CBS SportsJul 14, 2026, 5:01 PMUSMNT's Folarin Balogun admits Donald Trump's FIFA World Cup intervention was, 'a lot of outside noise'
Speaking with CBS Mornings, the star forward admits the controversy surrounding his overturned suspension created a difficult distraction ahead of the team's loss to Belgium
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