The United States men's national soccer team was eliminated from the World Cup round of 16 after a 4-1 defeat to Belgium on Monday.
The match followed a controversial decision by FIFA to lift striker Folarin Balogun's suspension.
>>> Renata Ford Dies as Family Requests Privacy in Toronto
Balogun, 25, received a red card during a 2-0 win against Bosnia-Herzegovina for stepping on an opponent's ankle.
The infraction triggered an automatic one-match ban.
FIFA's disciplinary committee suspended the ban for a year on Sunday. The decision came after a telephone call between U.
S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
The intervention sparked backlash from European soccer officials. UEFA stated that FIFA "crossed a red line."
The Belgian soccer federation formally contested Balogun's eligibility for the match.
Belgian supporters expressed open hostility during their pregame march to Lumen Field. Spectators chanted "FIFA Mafia."
Despite his reinstatement, Balogun failed to score before being substituted by Haji Wright in the 92nd minute.
>>> Giants Open to Trading Matt Chapman Before Trade Deadline
His primary contribution came in the 31st minute when he drew a foul from defender Brandon Mechele, leading to a successful free-kick goal by Malik Tillman.
Balogun generated multiple scoring opportunities using his speed but was repeatedly stopped by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
His most significant attempt occurred in the 82nd minute when Courtois blocked a left-footed shot.
Infantino attended the match alongside Belgian Football Association chair Pascale Van Damme and USSF president Cindy Parlow Cone.
He stated he did not influence the disciplinary committee's choice.
The committee also fined Balogun $40,000, an amount eligible for payment by the U. S.
Soccer Federation.
The defeat concluded Balogun's first World Cup appearance, where he scored three goals total, matching Landon Donovan's 2010 record.
>>> Atlanta Braves Overhaul Pitching Staff Amid Recent Injuries
The loss extends the American record of failing to secure consecutive knockout-stage victories since their 2002 quarterfinal run.
