The United States men’s national team is headed to the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup. But they’ll have to continue their journey without one of their biggest stars. Folarin Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament before being sent off in the second half as the United States defeated Bosnia on Wednesday night in Santa Clara, California. While the victory secured the Americans a place in the knockout stage. Balogun’s red card means he’ll miss the Round of 16 showdown against Belgium.
Balogun continued his impressive World Cup campaign by giving the United States a 1-0 lead just before halftime. The AS Monaco striker has emerged as one of the breakout performers of the tournament, with his latest finish marking his third goal in four World Cup appearances.
At that point, it appeared Balogun was once again on his way to being the hero.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 64th minute. After a challenge involving Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic, Brazilian referee Raphael Claus was instructed to review the play on the pitchside monitor.
Following the VAR review, Claus upgraded the incident to a straight red card after determining Balogun had dragged his cleats down the back of Muharemovic’s leg and onto his foot.
Folarin Balogun looked visibly stunned before slowly walking off the field as the United States was forced to finish the match with 10 players.
Suspension Looms Against Belgium
The red card carries an automatic one-match suspension. Ruling Balogun out of the United States’ Round of 16 matchup against Belgium. A U.S. Soccer spokesperson confirmed after the match that the federation will not appeal the decision since the suspension is limited to one game.
Losing Folarin Balogun is a significant blow to an American attack. That has relied heavily on his finishing throughout the tournament.
Despite the disappointment, Balogun etched his name into the World Cup record books. He became just the fifth American player ever to receive a red card at a FIFA World Cup. Joining Eric Wynalda (1990), Fernando Clavijo (1994), Pablo Mastroeni (2006), and Eddie Pope (2006).
Balogun also became the first player to score and later be sent off in a World Cup knockout-stage match since French legend Zinedine Zidane was famously dismissed during the 2006 World Cup Final.
Americans Celebrate Historic Victory
While Balogun’s dismissal cast a shadow over the evening, it couldn’t overshadow the significance of the result. The United States successfully defended its lead despite playing with 10 men. Advancing to the Round of 16 for the first time since 2002.
Following the final whistle, players, coaches, and thousands of American supporters celebrated together by singing John Denver’s classic “Country Roads,” creating one of the tournament’s most memorable scenes.
Now, the Americans shift their focus to Belgium. Knowing they’ll have to find a way to advance without one of the tournament’s hottest goal scorers.
Jon Jones Backs Conor McGregor Ahead of UFC 329 Return: ‘He Always Gets Back on His Feet’
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
