Tielemans: Belgium got boosted by Balogun’s red card controversy
Belgium captain Youri Tielemans has revealed that the team was fired up to go all out for victory against the USA following Folarin Balogun’s red card controversy.
The Belgians ran out 4-1 winners to book their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament in style on Tuesday.
It would be recalled that FIFA announced the suspension of Folarin Balogun’s red card less than 24 hours before the encounter.
Balogun was sent off in the round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina and he was expected to miss the clash against Belgium before FIFA suspended one match ban.
Tielemans revealed the controversy fueled the Belgians team impressive performance against the USA.
He said: “Let’s be honest: we held a meeting when we heard the news.
“We told ourselves we needed to do our talking on the pitch. That’s what we did today. I’m very proud of the team.
Tielemans’ teammates echoed their captain’s words.
“There was a sense of injustice within the squad, and we were determined to respond on the field,” said Nicolas Raskin.
Dodi Lukebakio said the Belgian team “didn’t really understand why he was allowed to play, because he got the red card,” but said they had been focused on performing.
“That’s what we did today. So we are very happy, very proud, and what is all around us is not our problem.”
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Meanwhile, Belgium coach Rudi Garcia disagreed with his players’ submission, insisting that that extra motivation from the Balogun affair “wasn’t needed or necessary.”
He said: “We told (our players) about what was happening. The group is very mature. We have leaders to help us go through that. I told them what mattered the most was us.
“What really mattered to us is our game plan… The US team is dynamic and full of energy.”
Garcia also expressed his appreciation that Balogun had made an effort to speak with him directly after the game.
“He came to talk to me. I really like that. It’s not his fault, he’s not the one to blame, and that’s what I told him,” said Garcia.
“I really appreciate the intention that he came to see me.”
Belgium will now take on Spain in the quarter-finals on Friday at the Los Angeles Stadium.
