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USMNT Survives Balogun Red Card, Beats Bosnia 2-0 to Set Up Belgium Clash in Round of 16
The USMNT is heading to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina — but it came at a cost. Star striker Folarin Balogun scored the opener but was controversially sent off, leaving the U.S. to hold on with 10 men before doubling the lead through a stunning Malik Tillman free kick.
What Happened
Playing at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the U.S. came out firing. Folarin Balogun continued his red-hot tournament form, scoring his third goal of the World Cup to give the USMNT a first-half lead.
But the night turned tense in the 64th minute. Balogun went up for a challenge and inadvertently landed on Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle. After a VAR review, the referee issued a straight red card — a decision that sparked furious debate.
“Absolute BS,” said USMNT legend Landon Donovan on Fox Sports. “I was so stressed in those last 10 minutes that even my fake hair was falling out.”
Despite being down to 10 men, the U.S. defense held firm. Then came the dagger: Malik Tillman curled a beautiful free kick over the wall and into the net late in the second half, sealing a 2-0 victory and sending the pro-American crowd into a frenzy.
What the Red Card Means
Folarin Balogun will now miss the Round of 16 clash against Belgium on July 6 in Seattle due to suspension. His absence is a major blow — Balogun has been the USMNT’s most dangerous attacker throughout the tournament.
The red card decision has divided fans and pundits. Some argue intent doesn’t matter when a tackle endangers an opponent, while others believe it was a harsh call that ruins a great World Cup moment.
USMNT vs Belgium: What’s at Stake
Belgium advanced earlier on Wednesday with a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Senegal, sealed by a Youri Tielemans last-gasp penalty in extra time. It sets up a mouthwatering Round of 16 matchup:
| Date | Venue | Time (ET) |
| — | — | — |
| July 6, 2026 | Lumen Field, Seattle | TBD |
The USMNT lost to Belgium 5-2 in a March friendly, so they’ll be hungry for revenge. But without Balogun, Mauricio Pochettino will need to adjust his attack.
Standout Performers
Alex Freeman was immense at right back, leading the team in touches and passes. The breakout star of this tournament for the U.S., Freeman has been a constant threat going forward while staying solid defensively.
Christian Pulisic spoke after the match about Tillman’s free kick:
“That’s what he does. He’s so good at those. To see it go in was amazing.”
Malik Tillman himself said:
“I know some guys doubted me to go over the wall, but I practiced this in training.”
What’s Next
The USMNT will face Belgium on July 6 at Lumen Field in Seattle. A win would send the Americans to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002 — when they famously reached the quarterfinals before falling to Germany.
FAQ
Can Folarin Balogun appeal his red card?
FIFA rules allow for appeals, but straight red cards for serious foul play are rarely overturned. It’s unlikely Balogun will be available for the Belgium match.
When is the USMNT vs Belgium match?
The Round of 16 clash is scheduled for July 6, 2026 at Lumen Field in Seattle. Exact kickoff time will be confirmed by FIFA.
Has the USMNT beaten Belgium before?
The U.S. lost to Belgium 5-2 in a friendly earlier this year, but they drew Belgium 0-0 in the 2014 World Cup Round of 16 before losing 2-1 in extra time.
Who scored for the USMNT against Bosnia?
Folarin Balogun opened the scoring in the first half, and Malik Tillman added a beautiful free kick late in the second half.
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Final Verdict: This USMNT team showed incredible grit to win with 10 men. If they can channel that same heart against Belgium, don’t count them out.
👉 [Catch all the World Cup 2026 action on FIFA+](https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026)
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