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After a dramatic 2-0 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina, the USMNT advance to the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 — but star striker Folarin Balogun is suspended after a highly controversial red card.
What Happened at Levi’s Stadium?
The United States Men’s National Team secured their place in the knockout stages with a gritty 2-0 victory over Bosnia & Herzegovina Wednesday night at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring in the first half — his third goal of the tournament, moving him into second place for most goals by a US player in a single World Cup.
But the night took a dramatic turn in the 64th minute. Referee Raphael Claus was sent to the VAR monitor to review what appeared to be an accidental collision between Balogun and Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic. After viewing the replay, Claus produced a straight red card — leaving the US down to ten men for the final half-hour.
Despite being a man down, Mauricio Pochettino’s squad showed incredible resilience. Malik Tillman doubled the lead with a stunning direct free-kick, making him only the second American player (after Eric Wynalda in 1994) to score directly from a free-kick at a World Cup.
Balogun Joins Elite — and Controversial — Company
By scoring and receiving a red card in the same World Cup knockout match, Balogun became only the fourth player in history to achieve the feat, joining Garrincha (1962), Ronaldinho (2002), and Zinedine Zidane (2006).
“Pretty cool record, huh? We told him that we’ve got his back now.”
— Chris Richards, USMNT defender
Why the Red Card Can’t Be Appealed
Under Article 10.5 of FIFA’s regulations, a player sent off via a direct red card is automatically suspended for the next match. A FIFA official confirmed that teams cannot appeal a standard one-match ban.
Christian Pulisic didn’t hold back: “Just so unfortunate, honestly. It seems so harsh… I understand it’s a dangerous act in a way, but he’s just trying to put his foot on the ground.”
Weston McKennie went further: “At this stage of the tournament, where every player is important, I think it’s a bit bogus.”
What’s Next: USMNT vs Belgium in Seattle
With Balogun suspended, Pochettino will likely turn to Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright to lead the attack against a strong Belgium side in the Round of 16. The match will be played at Lumen Field in Seattle. A win would send the US to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.
| Match | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Round of 16 | Belgium | Lumen Field, Seattle |
| Quarterfinal (if win) | TBD | TBD |
FAQ
Will Balogun be back for the quarterfinals?
If the USMNT beats Belgium, Balogun’s one-match ban will be served, and he would be eligible for the quarterfinals.
Was the red card justified?
It’s been hotly debated. The contact appeared accidental — Balogun was simply planting his foot. Many have noted similar incidents involving Lionel Messi that went unpunished earlier in the tournament.
Where can I watch the USMNT vs Belgium match?
FOX Sports holds the exclusive English-language broadcast rights. Streaming is available on Fox Sports app and FuboTV.
How far can this USMNT team go?
This is the most talented and deepest US squad in history. If they can get past Belgium without Balogun, a quarterfinal matchup awaits — and from there, anything is possible on home soil.
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