Balogun suspended for one match after red card in US win over Bosnia
U.S. striker Folarin Balogun received a red card for serious foul play in the victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina and will miss the round-of-16 match against Belgium, with FIFA confirming the decision cannot be appealed.
The United States men’s national team advanced to the 2026 World Cup round of 16 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but will be without forward Folarin Balogun for the next game against Belgium. Balogun, who scored in the first half, was shown a red card in the 64th minute after a clash with Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic. Video assistant referee review deemed the play a serious foul, triggering an automatic one-match suspension under FIFA regulations.
FIFA confirmed that referee decisions in World Cup matches are final and cannot be appealed. U.S. Soccer said there is no mechanism for appeal, although a spokesperson noted the federation would consider an appeal if the ban extended beyond a single game.
"Balogun can feel unfortunate to be red-carded in this situation as, in my opinion, this was not a red card offense," said veteran referee Andy Davies, who described the incident as accidental and part of normal contest for the ball.
"For me, never is it a red card -- Never was there intention to step on the player," U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino told reporters, adding that intent to damage an opponent would be a different matter.
Midfielder Weston McKennie expressed frustration, calling the suspension "a bit bogus" given the tournament stage. The United States will meet Belgium on July 6 in Seattle, marking its fourth consecutive round-of-16 appearance.