The US soccer team was eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 16 after a 4-1 loss to Belgium. US striker Folarin Balogun, who had previously dominated the global football headlines, had a quiet game.
Background and Controversy
Balogun, who acquired US citizenship by birth, had received a red card against Bosnia and was initially suspended for one match. However, FIFA made the controversial decision to suspend the ban, with US President Donald Trump claiming credit.
Balogun’s background was also in the spotlight, as he was born to a Nigerian mother who was unable to return to London from a trip to New York due to her advanced pregnancy. Trump has repeatedly called for ending birthright citizenship.
Despite the international outcry over FIFA’s decision, US midfielder Tyler Adams said the squad had largely been unaware of the controversy. Balogun struggled against Belgium’s defense, with only three attempts at goal, but did play a part in the US equalizer.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
