United States men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino has welcomed FIFA's controversial decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's one-match ban, allowing the striker to play in the World Cup last-16 clash against Belgium. Balogun, who has scored three goals in the tournament, was sent off in the second half of the USMNT's 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee announced on Sunday that the suspension would be replaced by a one-year probationary period.
Pochettino's Reaction to FIFA's Intervention
Speaking ahead of Monday night's match in Seattle, Pochettino said he 'wasn't involved' in the decision and found out about it 'today before training.' He added, 'My reaction is like everyone. I really love the sport, and trust the ethic and integrity. I think we all celebrate that decision.'
When asked about US President Donald Trump's rumoured involvement, Pochettino dismissed the notion, stating, 'You cannot mix that. It is a decision from FIFA.' The president had praised the reversal on his Truth Social account, writing, 'Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!'
Belgium's Outrage and Pochettino's Defense
The Belgian Football Association expressed 'astonishment' at the ruling and said it was 'investigating all potential options.' Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia likened the decision to 'April Fool's Day,' insisting his federation was 'defending football.' Pochettino, however, defended the development, noting that his federation had been 'working really hard and trying to defend our situation.'
Pochettino emphasized that he had not seen Trump's social media posts but stressed the importance of focusing on the game. 'We are here to play football, not to discuss politics,' he said.
