The United States' World Cup campaign concluded with a disappointing 4-1 loss to Belgium, their heaviest defeat since 1990. The team's exit from the last-16 stage was overshadowed by controversy surrounding forward Folarin Balogun's availability. FIFA controversially suspended a red card suspension, allowing Balogun to play, a decision criticized by several footballing bodies and even reaching US politics.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment with individuals he felt introduced "politics and manipulation" into the team's preparation. Despite the team's previous attacking swagger, their performance against Belgium was characterized by poor defending, with Belgium scoring early and regaining control after the US briefly equalized. The atmosphere, once vibrant, dwindled as the match progressed, with fans departing before the final whistle.

Balogun himself struggled to make an impact in the match, and afterwards, Pochettino dismissed the saga as an excuse for the performance, though he acknowledged the personal toll of the surrounding negativity. Belgium manager Rudi Garcia confirmed Balogun approached him post-match, with Garcia assuring the player he wasn't to blame. The US' World Cup journey, while increasing national interest in soccer, ultimately fell short of expectations, leaving questions about the team's future and Pochettino's contract.