Folarin Balogun red card, explained: What controversial call means for USMNT star’s availability for Round of 16

The United States felt they had a soft draw when they were matched up against Bosnia and Herzegovina to begin the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

However, the task became much more difficult just past the hour mark as Folarin Balogun was sent off after a pitch-side review by the referee.

With the USMNT leading 1-0 on a first-half goal from Balogun, the AS Monaco striker was given a straight red card that reduced Mauricio Pochettino's side to 10 men, forcing the World Cup co-hosts to protect their slim lead for half an hour in order to reach the Round of 16.

Why was Folarin Balogun red carded?

Folarin Balogun was sent off in the 65th minute of the World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina for serious foul play.

During a 50/50 challenge for the ball, Balogun caught Tarik Muharemovic on the ankle as the two came down to the turf.

This play is being reviewed for a potential red card against the US pic.twitter.com/EdyPpgpycA