U.S. Manager Defends FIFA’s Decision on Balogun

SEATTLE — Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of the U.S. national team, fervently supported FIFA’s choice to allow Folarin Balogun to play in the World Cup Round of 16. He argued that the red card issued against him during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina was unjust from the start.

“We’re pleased with the decision,” Pochettino stated. “In that game, I had to watch my team struggle for 30 minutes with only 10 men due to a completely unfair call. It’s not just because I coach the U.S. team; I need to protect my players. We all feel it was an unfair red card—almost 100 percent agree on that.”

The news about lifting Balogun’s suspension, effectively reducing it to a caution, left many astonished over the weekend.

While US Soccer played a role behind the scenes, Pochettino emphasized that he wasn’t involved at all. He appeared surprised to learn that President Trump had reportedly contacted Gianni Infantino to advocate for Balogun’s eligibility.

“I didn’t see that,” he mentioned. “I was busy training and speaking with you all. After a chat with a colleague, I rushed to shower and then grabbed a burrito. I was too occupied drinking coffee in the car to check social media.”

Pochettino referenced FIFA’s earlier decision regarding Cristiano Ronaldo, who had been allowed to play following a similar suspension scenario, to support his point.

“This isn’t just about us; it has happened in the past,” he explained. “In this World Cup, I’ve noticed many situations that weren’t penalized. I’m actually glad about that—some calls could have been really unfair. Just like Balogun, there are 12 players reacting differently in various games, but they didn’t face penalties. That’s something to celebrate. It’s disheartening to see unfair punishment in a World Cup.”

Pochettino acknowledged the reaction from Belgian coach Rudi Garcia, comparing it to an April Fools’ joke, yet he was open to considering other viewpoints.

“A yellow card is understandable,” he remarked. “But a red card that leaves us playing 35 minutes with only 10 players? That feels excessive. If I were in their position, I’d agree with you. It’s pretty clear.”

He added, “Isn’t the penalty for us just the absence of one player in the next match? For me, that’s not up for debate. This decision deserves recognition. It’s a chance to amend a potentially flawed ruling, not just for football but because having an extra player benefits us.”