Folarin Balogun will not be able to play in the United States’ next game against Belgium after receiving a red card during the Round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute following a VAR review that deemed his challenge on Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic worthy of a direct red card.
According to standard FIFA disciplinary regulations for the 2026 World Cup, any player issued a straight red card is automatically ejected from the current match and must serve at least a one-match suspension in the subsequent game.
What This Means for the USMNT
The suspension is a significant blow for the USMNT as they prepare for the Round of 16. Having been a standout performer for the Americans throughout the tournament, Balogun’s absence will force head coach Mauricio Pochettino to adjust his attacking lineup.
The United States is scheduled to play Belgium in the next round. Belgium secured their place in the Round of 16 after a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Senegal.
The upcoming match is set for:
- Date: Monday, July 6, 2026
- Venue: Seattle Stadium (Lumen Field), Seattle, Washington
- Kickoff Time: 8:00 PM ET
Pochettino will now have to look toward his bench for a replacement in the starting XI.
Options such as Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright, who have both seen action in the tournament, may be considered to fill the void left by Balogun’s suspension.
While the red card has sparked debate regarding the intensity of the challenge and the use of VAR, the disciplinary decision is final, meaning the U.S. will have to navigate their crucial encounter with the Red Devils without one of their primary goal-scoring threats.
