After days of intense controversy, political interference and unprecedented controversy over his red card suspension, Folarin Balogun’s return to the United States ended without a show as Belgium cruised to a convincing 4-1 victory in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on Monday.Balogun, whose presence became the headlines in international football after FIFA lifted his one-match ban, struggled to turn things around as the Americans crashed out of the competition. The Monaco international finished without a goal and had just 10 touches in the first half – the fewest of any player in the game at the time – in a game that was a stark contrast to the interest he returned.The defeat also increased the painful trend of the United States, who have now been eliminated in the Round of 16 in six of the seven appearances during that time. FIFA World Cupincluding each of their last four knockout appearances.
Only one race gets its biggest contribution
Balogun’s biggest contribution came in the 31st minute when he was brought down about 25 yards from goal by Belgian defender Brandon Mechele. Malik Tillman knocked the ball into the net to tie the game briefly at 1-1.Just before the set, Balogun tried to get the home crowd up and waving in the stands, but Belgium regained control and regained their advantage a minute later.The United States repeatedly looked to exploit Balogun’s pace behind the Belgian defence, but the striker found goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in inspired form. His best chance came in the 82nd minute, only for Courtois to deny his effort from the left. Balogun replaced Haji Wright in the second-half stoppage time.ALSO READ: Romelu Lukaku makes World Cup history with a super-sub feat as Belgium end USA’s dream
From the FIFA storm to the silent exit
Balogun’s participation overshadowed the settlement after FIFA took the dramatic step of suspending his one-match ban following his dismissal against Bosnia-Herzegovina.The striker received a red card after Brazilian referee Raphael Claus reviewed Balogun’s step on an opponent’s leg, which saw him banned for Belgium.However, following the phone call between the US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s disciplinary committee requested Article 27 of its constitution to suspend the punishment for one year of probation. Balogun remained eligible to play but was fined $40,000, a penalty that could be paid by the US Soccer Federation.The decision sparked widespread criticism across football. UEFA accused FIFA of having “crossed a red line”, Belgium contested Balogun’s eligibility, and supporters chanted “FIFA Mafia” on their way to Seattle’s Lumen Field before kick-off.Balogun arrived on the knockout stage after enjoying a memorable tournament, scoring three goals to match Landon Donovan’s feat in the 2010 World Cup – the second most by an American in one tournament behind Bert Patenaude’s four in 1930. He also became the first US player since Patenaude to score twice in a World Cup.But after days of untold controversy and international scrutiny, Balogun’s much-talked-about feat turned into a dull moment, as Belgium ended the United States’ hopes of a World Cup legend.
