USA Faces Round of 16 Match Without Key Player Balogun

The United States soccer team is preparing for a crucial World Cup match against Belgium without one of its standout performers, Folarin Balogun. Balogun faces suspension for the Round of 16 due to a red card received during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Balogun’s red card resulted from an accidental incident that occurred while he was attempting to gain control of a loose ball. In the process, he stepped on the opponent’s ankle, leading to an awkward and painful twist. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviewed the incident and deemed it worthy of a red card.

The red card during the match not only reduced the U.S. team to ten men but also prevents Balogun from participating in the upcoming game against Belgium. After the incident, Balogun expressed his disagreement with the referee’s decision, asserting that the action was unintentional.

“First and foremost, it was totally unintentional,” Balogun told reporters. “I don’t think it was the correct call. A yellow card would have been fair.”

Balogun emphasized the importance of setting an example for young fans, maintaining composure during tough situations, and expressed gratitude for the team’s support.

Despite the controversy, the U.S. team must accept the decision, as stated in Article 9.6 of the 2026 World Cup regulations. This stipulates that referee decisions connected to play are final and cannot be appealed unless specified differently in the FIFA Disciplinary Code. Article 10.5 further explains that a player sent off due to a direct or indirect red card is automatically suspended for the next match.

FIFA confirmed Balogun’s one-match suspension, allowing him to return in the quarterfinals if the USA advances against Belgium.