SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Folarin Balogun was shown a red card in the 64th minute of the U.S. men’s national team round-of-32 game against Bosnia and Herzegovina after video review of a foul on Tarik Muharemovic.As the ball was played up the left sideline from Antonee Robinson in the 61st minute, with the U.S. leading 1-0, Balogun reached out and tried to get his body in position. As he did so, he landed on the back of the leg of Muharemovic, raking down the calf and landing on the defender’s ankle.It did not look like an intentional foul, but rather the forward landing awkwardly. On the slow-motion replay, however, it looked like a strong tackle. And there was no doubt that Balogun made rough contact on the defender.

Was this worthy of a red card? 🟥 pic.twitter.com/WfrIxMRNMD

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 2, 2026Balogun, 24, scored the opening goal for the U.S. and had arguably been the best player on the field for the Americans through the first hour of the game.

Whereas the U.S. wasted chances four years ago, Balogun has been a consistent danger man in this World Cup. That continued into the knockout stage. The Monaco striker had a goal called back for offside in the 31st minute, but then gave the U.S. a 1-0 lead in the 45th minute with a neat left-footed finish.Balogun broke out LeBron James’ “Silencer” celebration, which earned a tweet from the NBA legend.The U.S. heavily recruited Balogun coming out of the Qatar tournament, with fans aiding in that chase with their all-out press on social media. Balogun has proven to be worth it, producing across his national team career.The New York-born, London-raised striker now has three goals in this World Cup, tied for second-most with Landon Donovan (2010) in a single tournament. Bert Patenaude (1930) holds the USMNT record with four, with his hat trick against Paraguay following a goal against Belgium.Balogun, however, will have to watch the remainder of the knockout game from the sideline and would automatically miss the round of 16 game if the U.S. advances. FIFA, which organizes the World Cup, has the power to extend Balogun’s ban if its disciplinary committee chooses to.Jul 2, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms