Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia hit out after his side’s 4-1 win over the United States, insisting that Folarin Balogun should not be blamed for the dispute over his eligibility and revealing that the American striker approached him after the final whistle.Balogun’s participation caused controversy in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after FIFA suspended the implementation of his one-match ban, allowing him to face Belgium despite being sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The decision sparked widespread criticism across the football world, with Belgium’s football federation questioning the move and several leaders raising concerns about the move.However, Garcia made it clear that his frustration did not go to the player.“Balogun came to talk to me, I liked that. It’s not his reason, it’s not his fault. I told him that. I appreciate that he came to talk to me,” said Garcia, quoted by The Athletic.
Belgium still listens to the outside noise
Garcia also rejected suggestions that Balogun’s debacle provided extra motivation for his players, stressing that Belgium’s interest remained in the execution of their plans.“It wasn’t necessary or important (in terms of motivation). What was important for us was our game plan. We wanted to be famous; the US team is strong and full of energy. We didn’t need Kevin (De Bruyne), we got goals,” he said.Belgium supported the statement with a big show in Seattle. Charles De Ketelaere made a brace to claim the Player of the Match award, Hans Vanaken scored his maiden. FIFA World Cup goals and substitute Romelu Lukaku added a stoppage-time strike to seal a comprehensive victory.The Americans briefly took the lead through Malik Tillman’s free-kick before the defense collapsed and a big mistake by goalkeeper Matt Freese let Belgium clear.
Praise Belgium, worry about Onan
While celebrating qualification for the quarter-finals, Garcia also took time to thank the Belgian supporters who stayed overnight to watch the match.“I think it’s 4am in Belgium right now. To everyone who got up in the middle of the night to help us, I want to say a big thank you. They must be happy and proud of their players today. We showed that Belgium is a great football country. The players were smart and followed the game plan well. We were in control throughout the game. Again, it was a real team effort,” Garcia said.The Belgian coach admitted that there is one big problem despite his great success.“One big disappointment, a dark cloud tonight, is the injury of Amadou Onana. We owe it to him to continue in the second round, win the game and qualify for the quarter-finals,” he added.Belgium will now face Spain in the quarterfinals on July 10.
