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What to know about US soccer star Folarin Balogun's 1-game red card suspension, why team can't appeal
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Key Points:
- The U.S. men's national soccer team secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but striker Folarin Balogun received a red card in the 64th minute and will be suspended for the next match against Belgium.
- Balogun's red card was issued after a VAR review determined his cleat made dangerous contact with a Bosnia defender's leg, a decision confirmed by FIFA as final and not subject to appeal.
- USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino and players, including Weston McKennie, expressed disappointment, stating the foul was accidental and the red card harsh given the circumstances.
- Balogun scored the first goal of the match, marking his third goal of the tournament and 11th overall for the U.S., highlighting the impact of his upcoming absence.
- The U.S. will face Belgium on July 6 in Seattle, continuing their streak of reaching the Round of 16 in the last four World Cup tournaments.
