Balogun’s dismissal changes the U.S. Round of 16 plans
SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The U.S. men’s national team booked a place in the World Cup round of 16 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but it will face Belgium without Folarin Balogun. The striker scored the opening goal in the first half before being shown a red card in the 64th minute for serious foul play.
Because of the sending off, Balogun is automatically suspended for one match. The ban removes one of the Americans’ most important finishing threats ahead of a knockout game that will test the squad’s depth.
How the red card unfolded
Balogun was involved in a challenge with Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic as both players went for the ball. The on-field referee initially let play continue, but the video assistant referee recommended a review after the contact.
After looking at the pitchside monitor, the referee upgraded the incident to a red card. Balogun’s cleat came down the leg of Muharemovic and onto his foot during the play, which led officials to rule the challenge dangerous.
Why the suspension cannot be appealed
Under FIFA World Cup 26 regulations, a player sent off for a direct red card is automatically suspended for the team’s next match. Unlike in some club competitions, the decision made by the referee on the field is final at the World Cup level.
FIFA confirmed there is no way for the U.S. to appeal the call. U.S. Soccer also said there is no appeal mechanism, leaving Balogun out of the Belgium match unless the governing body later adds any further sanction beyond the one-game ban.
Pochettino and McKennie question the call
U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino said Balogun was upset after the match and argued the action was part of a normal attempt to win the ball. He said he did not see intent to hurt the opponent and did not view the play as a red-card offense.
Midfielder Weston McKennie also pushed back, calling the suspension “bogus” in a tournament where every player matters. Their comments reflect how costly the absence could be for a U.S. side that has leaned on Balogun’s scoring touch.
Balogun’s tournament form gives the suspension extra weight
The goal against Bosnia was Balogun’s third of the tournament and his 11th for the United States overall. He has become one of the key pieces in the U.S. attack, giving the team a reliable runner and a direct threat in the box.
Losing him for Belgium forces the U.S. to adjust its attacking shape and finishing responsibilities. That matters even more in a knockout match, where one chance can decide whether the Americans keep moving toward the quarterfinals.
What comes next for the USMNT
The United States will play Belgium in Seattle on July 6, with a spot in the quarterfinals on the line. It will be the fourth time the Americans have reached the World Cup round of 16 in their last four appearances.
For Pochettino’s team, the task now is simple: replace Balogun’s production and stay sharp against a deeper, more experienced opponent. The U.S. already proved it can win without dominating possession, but it now has to do it without one of its most dangerous scorers.
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