Pochettino hails FIFA's Balogun decision ahead of Belgium clash

Balogun was controversially sent off during the 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after a VAR review, with the call drawing widespread criticism.

Speaking before Tuesday's encounter in Seattle, Pochettino said justice had been served by the world governing body. 

"My reaction I think is like everyone that really loved that sport and trust in the ethic and integrity, you know, I think we all celebrate that decision," said Pochettino

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"We were punished enough against Bosnia and Herzegovina to play with 10 men, 30 minutes in a decision that was completely unfair, but it's not only because I am the head coach of the US men national team I need to defend my side. It's only because I think it's 100% or 99% because always some people, you know, but 99.9% that we all, you know, agree that was an unfair red card."

His Belgian counterpart Rudi Garcia labelled the decision an "April Fool's joke", but Pochettino insisted both technical areas had every right to defend their own interests.

The USA coach explained how the federation took charge of the procedure to have the red card reviewed over the last few days. 

"A normal process and of course the Federation for sure was working really hard, you know, JT and the whole Federation was working and trying to defend our situation and that's it. I wasn't involved, I was focused and tried to prepare the team to face Belgium. Working in different options, working, you know, and try to be focused to play tomorrow with our best, in our best condition."

Pochettino then said it was pointless to now argue about something that is no longer going to change ahead of the match.