Balogun controversy no excuse for USA’s World Cup exit – Pochettino

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has dismissed suggestions that the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun’s eligibility contributed to his side’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the Americans were simply outplayed by Belgium.
The USA crashed out of the tournament after suffering a comprehensive 4-1 defeat to Belgium in their Round of 16 clash in Seattle on Monday, ending the hopes of the last remaining co-host nation.
The build-up to the knock