Fans, pundits have harsh words as U.S. exits World Cup after dismal performance, controversy

Fans and pundits delivered harsh criticism after the United States exited the World Cup following a 4-1 defeat by Belgium in the Round of 16 on Monday night in Seattle. The match drew additional scrutiny for the controversy surrounding the eligibility of Folarin Balogun, who was central to the debate despite the U.S. losing 4-1. Fox Sports pundit Carli Lloyd said the team appeared to “lose the game” mentally before stepping on the pitch and questioned why key players did not step up, adding that Christian Pulisic had not contributed enough across the tournament. Pulisic finished with no goals and one assist and was substituted in the 59th minute after re-aggravating an ankle injury. Balogun, initially set to miss after a red card in the Round of 32, had the ban suspended on Sunday after FIFA’s change, after which Trump said he asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the call. Belgium scored through Charles De Ketelaere, Hans Vanaken, and Romelu Lukaku, who added two late celebrations that extended the trolling online and in the locker room.