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The day before the U.S. Men's National Team's Round of 16 game against Belgium, which Balogun(photo below) was originally supposed to miss because of a red card in the prior game, FIFA ruled that he would be eligible.
The ruling added on to what was already a huge controversy, as it was argued Balogun should not have been red-carded in the first place. Nonetheless, Balogun was active despite an appeal and strong reaction from Belgium.
It didn't quite matter, as the U.S. was embarrassed in a 4-1 defeat to Belgium to end its World Cup hopes, but after the game, Balogun approached Belgium manager Rudi Garcia, an interaction Garcia said he greatly appreciated.
"He came to talk to me. I really liked that. It is not his fault; he is not the one to blame, and that’s what I told him," Garcia told reporters after the match. "I really appreciate the intention that he came to see me. I appreciate this player."
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