Belgium and US Star Forward Resolve Issues Post-Match

After Belgium’s 4-1 victory over the United States in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday, head coach Rudi Garcia and US forward Folarin Balogun addressed some lingering tensions between them.

During the post-match press conference, Garcia shared details of their discussion, indicating that Balogun wasn’t to blame for the situation surrounding his recent red card suspension, which FIFA recently lifted.

“He came to talk to me, and I really appreciated it,” Garcia conveyed in French with the help of an interpreter after the game in Seattle.

Garcia reiterated, “It’s not his fault. It’s not his fault,” and emphasized his gratitude for Balogun’s initiative to reach out. He remarked, “I appreciate this player.” This conversation unfolded following Balogun’s return, which, Garcia humorously likened to an April Fool’s gag during his pregame remarks.

The situation surrounding Balogun had escalated when FIFA declared he would face a one-year suspension instead of just a one-match ban after a red card issued during the US team’s Round of 32 game against Bosnia. This decision came after President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to urge a review of Balogun’s incident involving Bosnian defender Tarik Mujaremović.

Although Belgium was given the opportunity to appeal this decision, Balogun was still permitted to play in the match against Belgium.

Following this win, Belgium, now ranked 9th worldwide, has remained unbeaten in their last 18 games. Next, they are set to face Spain in the quarterfinals on Friday in Inglewood, California.