Pochettino defends USMNT amid Balogun suspension controversy

Mauricio Pochettino expressed his support for USMNT striker Folarin Balogun following the suspension controversy during a press conference ahead of the World Cup Round of 16 game against Belgium. Balogun's red card suspension was replaced with a one-year probationary period, which Pochettino stressed is not an uncommon outcome in FIFA's disciplinary history. Belgian officials expressed shock at the decision, with their coach Rudi Garcia likening it to an April Fools' joke. Pochettino highlighted that the case resembles past instances involving notable players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Garrincha. He emphasized the importance of rectifying unfair decisions in the sport and suggested the need for an appeals process for red-card suspensions during World Cup events.

• 10:52 PMYahoo Sports — Mauricio Pochettino on return from suspension of USMNT striker Folarin Balogun: 'We are not the bad guys here'