The United States booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but the night ended in sadness for striker Folarin Balogun, who made an unwanted piece of World Cup history.Balogun became the fourth player to score a goal and receive a red card in a men’s FIFA World Cup knockout match. The 24-year-old joins an exclusive list that includes Brazil legend Garrincha (1962 semi-final), Ronaldinho (2002 quarter-final), and France icon Zinedine Zidane, whose infamous elimination occurred in the 2006 final.Unwanted World Cup list:
- Folarin Balogun – 2026 round of 32
- Zinedine Zidane – 2006 final
- Ronaldinho – 2002 quarter-final
- Garrincha – 1962 semi-final
Goals, celebrations and sorrows
Balogun seemed destined to be the hero after putting the United States ahead before halftime. He had already seen an effort ruled out for offside before calmly finishing after Malik Tillman’s pass was kindly deflected into his path.The striker celebrated his version of NBA legend LeBron James’ iconic “Silencer” celebration, a moment that even got a reaction from James on social media.However, the game took a dramatic turn in the 64th minute.Balogun challenged Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic for the ball and accidentally stepped on his ankle. Brazilian referee Raphael Claus initially allowed play to continue but upgraded the decision to a straight red card after a VAR review.
Folarin Balogun (20) of the United States reacts after scoring his team’s first goal. (AP Photo)
The USA is angry because of the red card
The dismissal means that Balogun will automatically miss the Round of 16 match against Belgium.“It’s so unfortunate honestly,” said captain Christian Pulisic after the game. “It just seemed so hard for us to get that. He’s done so much for us, and now we got him.Head coach Mauricio Pochettino also strongly disagreed with the decision.“It was never intentional,” Pochettino said. “It’s not a red card. No. If the intention is to harm the opponent, OK, I understand. But never.Despite the loss, the Americans held firm with 10 men before Tillman sealed victory with a stunning late free-kick, ensuring the USA progressed as Balogun watched from the sidelines. The striker’s suspension has now left Mauricio Pochettino with a major selection problem ahead of Monday’s Round of 16 showdown against Belgium.