USA's World Cup surge faces setback as Balogun sees red card

Former Arsenal academy striker Folarin Balogun dominated the USA's World Cup last‑32 clash with Bosnia & Herzegovina on Wednesday night, netting a goal and later being shown a red card. His contributions helped the United States secure a 2‑0 victory and advance to the last‑16. In the 31st minute Balogun believed he had given the USA the lead, cutting behind a defender and finishing with his left foot. The goal was ruled out for off‑side as his body was almost entirely behind the Bosnian defensive line when the ball was played. Fourteen minutes later he found the decisive opening goal, pouncing on a defensive error to slide the ball home for a 1‑0 lead. A shot of the strike by Jamie Squire captured the moment.

Bosnia and Herzegovina arrive in Santa Clara with knockout pedigree

Early in the second half Balogun was dismissed after a VAR review for a foul on an opponent. The decision was criticised as harsh, with Balogun merely trying to plant his foot and inadvertently turning the defender’s ankle. The red card reduces the USA to ten men and triggers an automatic one‑match suspension with no right of appeal. FIFA’s disciplinary committee could extend the ban, but officials deem further games unlikely. Malik Tillman restored the two‑goal cushion in the 82nd minute, converting a free‑kick to seal a 2‑0 win. The United States progressed to the round of 16, while Balogun’s absence looms over the upcoming fixture. Balogun will miss the last‑16 clash against Belgium on 6 July, though he could return for the quarter‑finals if the USA continue their run. Photo by Michael Steele documented Balogun’s red‑card incident.