USA striker Folarin Balogun apologised to fans after the United States crashed out of the FIFA World Cup with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16. Balogun admitted the team failed when it mattered most. His controversial suspension reversal by FIFA sparked criticism from Belgium and UEFA, while FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the independence of the disciplinary process.

New Delhi: USA striker Folarin Balogun issued an apology to fans after his team's humiliating FIFA World Cup exit, saying the team was not at its best when it mattered the most.

Balogun into the international spotlight when set to serve a one-match suspension after receiving a red card for a foul on Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic in the Round of 32 victory before US president Donald Trump's intervention helped get his ban overturned so he was able to play against Belgium.

His presence on the field was not enough to secure a win in Seattle as Belgium shattered co-hosts' dream in the last 16 with a 4-1 victory.

"My debut World Cup… it hurts to wait 4 years to compete at the highest level our sport has to offer. I want to say sorry to our fans; it was not good enough when it mattered most, and we let you down. Soccer in America will only become bigger the belief, the talent, and the passion are continually growing, and I know the best days are in front of us. The future belongs to those who never stop believing; this moment will fuel us. We will be back," Balogun shared in his Instagram post.