Mauricio Pochettino has insisted the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun’s overturned suspension played no part in the United States’ World Cup exit, while expressing disappointment at the political narrative that overshadowed his team’s preparations.
The USA coach addressed the issue after his side suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16, bringing an end to the Americans’ hopes of reaching the quarterfinals on home soil.
Balogun had been expected to miss the match after receiving a red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina, only for FIFA to suspend the automatic one-match ban, allowing the striker to feature against Belgium following days of intense debate.
Despite the extraordinary build up, Pochettino refused to use the episode as an explanation for his side’s disappointing performance.
“We don’t need another excuse,” the Argentine told reporters.
“Belgium were better than us and that’s it. We were not good enough today. It wasn’t our day and we didn’t perform in the way we were supposed to perform.”
The former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager admitted the Americans never found their rhythm against a Belgian side that took control from the opening whistle.
“I think we never connected with the game,” he said.
“We started in a really poor way and never found the flow of the match. Even when we scored to make it 1-1, we conceded immediately afterwards. That is a goal we normally cannot concede.”
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While dismissing suggestions that the Balogun case distracted his players, Pochettino acknowledged he was personally frustrated by how events unfolded off the pitch.
“I feel so disappointed with too many people because they mixed things,” he said.
“I am the head coach. My responsibility is to prepare the team. If the player is available because FIFA’s disciplinary committee allows it, then he is available.
“But people started mixing football with politics, talking about ethics and integrity. That disappointed me personally.”
Balogun’s reinstatement generated fierce reaction before kick-off, with Belgium publicly questioning FIFA’s decision and political figures from both countries becoming involved in the debate.
Pochettino, however, maintained that his squad remained fully focused on football.
“I don’t think it affected us,” he added.
“We simply were not the same team that showed our quality throughout the tournament.”
The Argentine also defended the process that led to Balogun’s availability, insisting it was governed by FIFA regulations rather than outside influences.
“It was a rule that was possible for the federation to apply,” he explained.
“If the disciplinary committee allows the player to play, then he plays. That is all.”
Despite the painful defeat, Pochettino urged observers not to overlook the progress his side had made during the tournament, although he admitted Belgium deserved their place in the quarterfinals.
“There is no excuse,” he concluded.
“We have to accept that today Belgium were better than us.”
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