Balogun: Trump’s FIFA intervention ‘affected team atmosphere’ before US World Cup exit
Speaking to CBS Mornings after the United States’ elimination from their home World Cup, Balogun acknowledged that while he felt initial relief when FIFA lifted his suspension, the political involvement created an uncomfortable atmosphere within the squad.
“The first feeling was relief and happiness,” Balogun said. “But shortly after, I realized the decision would provoke great repercussion and increase pressure on the entire group. As the match approached, you could notice a certain discomfort among my teammates.”
The controversial red card
The controversy began during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, when Brazilian referee Raphael Claus showed Balogun a red card after VAR review. The striker had caught defender Muharemovic’s heel while challenging for the ball.
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Balogun maintains the punishment was excessive, insisting the contact was unintentional and shouldn’t have warranted a foul, let alone a red card. “Red cards should only be applied in plays with clear intention to hit the opponent,” he argued.
WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 05: U.S. President Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, chat during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Presidential intervention sparks debate
Trump’s direct contact with FIFA President Gianni Infantino requesting a case review triggered international debate about the independence of football’s governing body. The Belgian Federation attempted to block Balogun’s participation in the round of 16 match, but FIFA rejected their request.
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According to Balogun, the external attention made proper match preparation nearly impossible. “The team had to coexist with debates and questions instead of concentrating all their energy on the elimination match,” he explained.
Despite Balogun’s availability for the knockout game, the United States couldn’t overcome Belgium, ending the host nation’s World Cup campaign amid lingering questions about whether the off-field drama contributed to their disappointing exit.