Balogun Star Despite World Cup Controversy

Despite being thrust into an international controversy when his red card was overturned after reported intervention by President Trump, Folarin Balogun emerged as one of the stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 25-year-old striker scored three goals for the United States before their elimination in a 4-1 loss to Belgium.

Balogun became the first player since 1962 not to serve a suspension after receiving a red card during the tournament itself, an unusual situation that even he acknowledged would be controversial. "When you're given a red card, usually the protocol is you don't play in the following game," Balogun said. "When that decision's overturned, it's going to be controversial." livefromquarantine.club