The United States reserved its place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 2026 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the night ended broken for striker Folarin Balogun, who created an unwanted piece of World Cup history.Balogun became only the fourth player ever to score and receive a red card in a FIFA Men’s World Cup knockout match. The 24-year-old joins an exclusive list that includes Brazilian legend Garrincha (1962 semi-final), Ronaldinho (2002 quarter-final) and French icon Zinedine Zidane, whose infamous dismissal came in the 2006 final.World Cup Unwanted List:
- Folarin Balogun – 2026 round of 16
- Zinedine Zidane – 2006 final
- Ronaldinho – quarter-final 2002
- Garrincha – 1962 semi-final
A goal, a celebration and a broken heart
Balogun was destined to be the hero after giving the United States the lead just before halftime. He had already seen one effort ruled out for offside before calmly finishing after Malik Tillman’s pass was kindly deflected into his path.The forward celebrated with his own version of NBA legend LeBron James’ iconic “Silencer” celebration, a moment that even sparked a reaction from James on social media.But the dramatic turn comes in the 64th minute.Balogun challenged Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemović for the ball and accidentally stepped on his ankle. Brazilian referee Raphael Claus initially allowed play to continue, but upgraded that decision to a straight red card after a VAR review.
American player Folarin Balogun (20) reacts after scoring the first goal for his team. (AP photo)
USA furious about the red card
The suspension means that Balogun will automatically miss the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.“It’s so unfortunate, honestly,” captain Christian Pulisic said after the game. “It seems so harsh for us to get that. He’s done so much for us and now we’ve got his back. If he has to miss the next game, it’s just ridiculous for something like that.”Head coach Mauricio Pochettino also strongly disagrees with this decision.“It was never intentional,” Pochettino said. “It’s never a red card. Never. If the intention is to damage the opponent, OK, I understand. But it never was. It was a normal action in football to fight for the ball and your feet land.”Despite the setback, the Americans held firm with 10 men before Tillman sealed victory with a stunning late free kick, securing the USA’s advance as Balogun watched from the sidelines. The striker’s suspension now leaves Mauricio Pochettino with a major electoral dilemma ahead of Monday’s round of 16 clash against Belgium.
