The United States men's national soccer team was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 4-1 loss to Belgium in the round of 16 on July 7, 2026. Star striker Folarin Balogun, who had been suspended for one game due to a red card received in the U.S. victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, was allowed to play after FIFA suspended his suspension for a probationary period of one year.

Balogun was sent off during the July 1 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina after stepping on an opponent’s ankle, an action that normally triggers an automatic one-game ban. However, following a phone call from U.S. President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s disciplinary committee lifted the suspension and fined Balogun $40,000, a penalty that can be paid by the U.S.

The decision sparked controversy and criticism from soccer leaders, including UEFA and Belgium's soccer federation, which questioned the integrity of the World Cup and Balogun's eligibility. Belgium's Nicolas Raskin described the 4-1 victory as a measure of "justice," referring to FIFA's decision to allow Balogun to play despite his red card.

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia told Balogun the controversy was "not his fault" and stated that the players were neither motivated nor distracted by the affair. Garcia also said that Belgium’s squad had been kept informed of the situation but denied using it as motivation for the match.

Balogun himself said, “I accepted the decision when I was given the red card, and I accepted the decision when I was told I was allowed to play. I didn't have any involvement in the process, and that's not something that has anything to do with me personally.”

Despite Balogun's presence and his assist on Malik Tillman's goal, the U.S. team was decisively defeated. The Americans had performed well in the group stage with a 2-1 record but could not overcome Belgium in the knockout round.

Former U.S. women's national team star Carli Lloyd, working as a Fox Sports commentator, criticized the U.S. men's team and captain Christian Pulisic for their performance, calling the 4-1 loss "unacceptable."

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) announced it is investigating all potential options to safeguard the rights of participating teams and uphold fair play principles in the tournament.

Sources