World Cup 2026: Folarin Balogun row cannot hide USA’s failure as Pochettino admits ‘we were not good enough’

Mauricio Pochettino refused to blame the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun for the United States’ crushing World Cup exit, insisting his team simply failed to perform in their 4-1 defeat to Belgium.

The co-hosts arrived in Seattle with hopes of extending their historic home tournament run, but were outplayed by a ruthless Belgian side that punished defensive mistakes and ended America’s dream of reaching the latter stages of the competition.

Charles De Ketelaere struck twice, while Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku capitalised on costly errors to send Belgium into the quarter-finals and leave the United States facing a painful reality check.

For Pochettino, the defeat was a disappointing conclusion to a tournament where expectations had grown significantly around the national team.

Pochettino rejects Balogun controversy as explanation

Much of the build-up to the match had focused on Balogun’s availability after the striker avoided an immediate suspension following his red card in the round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The FIFA independent disciplinary committee placed the forward on probation rather than enforcing an instant ban, allowing him to feature against Belgium.

However, Pochettino dismissed suggestions that the situation affected his squad’s preparation or contributed to the heavy defeat.

“I think we were not good enough today, we don’t need to find another excuse,” Pochettino said.

“Today, we were not the same team as we were in the tournament. It is a very bad day for everyone; we need to accept that this happens, but in a World Cup, we have no second chance. We are out; we need to accept that.”

The Argentine coach admitted his team never reached the standards they had shown earlier in the tournament, accepting responsibility for a performance that fell well below expectations.

US progress praised despite uncertain future

Despite the disappointing ending, Pochettino believes the United States have made significant progress during his time in charge.

The former Chelsea FC and Tottenham Hotspur manager highlighted the growth of the team, arguing that their ability to compete with one of Europe’s strongest nations represented a major step forward.

“The improvement or to grow is not like you are in a rocket and you improve and you go like this,” he said.

“One year ago, before the Gold Cup, no one believed we would be playing Belgium, a contender of the World Cup.”

However, Pochettino remained unclear about whether he would continue leading the team into the next World Cup cycle.

“I think, now, we need to rest, to have conversation and then to see what the decision is from the federation. I am happy, we build a good relationship. In the next weeks, we can start to talk if the federation wants to talk.”

Coach hits back at those who mixed football and politics

While refusing to use Balogun’s situation as an excuse, Pochettino expressed frustration at individuals who turned the disciplinary matter into a wider political debate.

He insisted his responsibility was purely football-related and that selecting an available player was a straightforward decision.

“(I am) so frustrated with the people, who mix the things. In these situations, it didn’t affect our performance, it is not an excuse.”

He added: “It wasn’t our day, but in a personal way, what is the point to receive bad messages, threats if my position is I am the head coach.”

The controversy intensified after United States president Donald Trump claimed he influenced discussions surrounding Balogun’s return through a conversation with FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

However, Infantino later insisted that FIFA’s disciplinary committee operates independently and that outside influence played no role in the decision.