The United States men’s national soccer team (USMNT) advanced to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with an impressive 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the celebration was overshadowed by a controversial red card shown to Folarin Balogun. The US striker scored the opening goal before being sent off after a VAR review, leaving fans asking: Why did Balogun get a red card? Can Balogun play the next game? What happens when you receive a red card in soccer?
Here’s everything you need to know about the incident, USA’s victory, and the team’s next World Cup challenge.
Balogun Scores Before Seeing Red
Folarin Balogun continued his excellent FIFA World Cup campaign by giving Team USA the lead against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. The striker calmly finished after an excellent attacking move orchestrated by Malik Tillman, putting the USMNT in control before halftime.
However, the match changed in the second half.
While chasing a loose ball, Balogun’s challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemović was reviewed by Brazilian referee Raphael Claus following VAR intervention. After watching the replay, the referee upgraded the incident to a straight red card for serious foul play.
Why Did Balogun Get a Red Card?
Many fans wondered, “Why did Balogun get a red card?”
The referee ruled that Balogun’s challenge endangered his opponent after his studs made contact with Muharemović’s ankle. Although play initially continued, VAR recommended an on-field review, resulting in a direct red card.
The decision immediately sparked debate across social media, with many supporters believing the challenge deserved only a yellow card.
What Does a Red Card Mean in Soccer?
For new soccer fans asking “What does a red card mean in soccer?”, a red card results in:
- The player being immediately sent off.
- The team continuing with only 10 players.
- An automatic suspension for at least the next match in most FIFA competitions.
- Additional suspensions if FIFA determines the offense was especially serious.
This is why many fans also searched for “what happens when you get a red card in soccer,” “red card in World Cup,” and “if you get a red card in soccer can you play the next game.”
Is Balogun Out for the Next Game?
Yes.
Balogun will miss the United States’ Round of 16 showdown against Belgium because a straight red card carries an automatic one-match suspension under FIFA World Cup regulations. Multiple reports also indicate the suspension itself cannot be appealed in this case.
That means fans asking “Can Balogun play next game?”, “Is Balogun out next game?”, or “Folarin Balogun red card suspension” have a clear answer: No, he is suspended for the Belgium match.
Malik Tillman Steps Up
Fortunately for Team USA, Malik Tillman delivered one of his best performances in a USMNT shirt.
Tillman helped create Balogun’s opener before sealing the victory with a brilliant second-half free kick after the United States had been reduced to 10 men. His outstanding display ensured Mauricio Pochettino’s side comfortably advanced despite playing with one fewer player.
Christian Pulisic and the USMNT Show Character
Captain Christian Pulisic praised the team’s resilience after the match as the Americans defended brilliantly despite the numerical disadvantage.
Veterans Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Antonee Robinson helped keep Bosnia scoreless, while goalkeeper Matt Freese remained composed under pressure as the US protected its lead.
USA vs Belgium: Next World Cup Test
The United States now prepares for a huge Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
The absence of Balogun means the USMNT will likely rely on other attacking options to replace the tournament’s leading American scorer. Belgium remains one of Europe’s strongest sides, making the knockout match one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament.
USA World Cup Journey Continues
The United States has continued to impress throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup with energetic pressing, disciplined defending, and improved attacking play under Mauricio Pochettino.
Questions such as “Did USA win today?”, “USA score,”, “USA next game,”, and “Who is USA playing in the World Cup?” have now been answered:
- USA defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0.
- Malik Tillman and Folarin Balogun scored.
- Balogun received a red card.
- The USMNT will face Belgium in the Round of 16.
Final Thoughts
Folarin Balogun experienced one of the most dramatic World Cup matches imaginable—scoring an important goal before being sent off in controversial fashion. While his suspension is a significant blow for Team USA, the USMNT showed tremendous resilience by defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina despite playing with 10 men.
Now, attention shifts to Belgium, where Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, Tim Ream, and the rest of the United States men’s national soccer team will attempt to keep their FIFA World Cup dream alive without one of their most dangerous attackers.
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