Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Folarin Balogun red card has left the United States men’s national team without their leading forward for the World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium.

Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina after VAR official Juan Soto advised referee Raphael Claus to review a challenge on Tarek Muharemovic. The decision changed the match, forcing the United States to protect their lead with 10 men.

For more Premier League and World Cup transfer news, read Elliot Anderson Manchester City Transfer Sets New British Record Benchmark, while official tournament information is available through the FIFA World Cup 2026 page.

Pochettino Disputes Red Card

United States coach Mauricio Pochettino strongly disagreed with the decision after the match.

"For me, never is it a red card," Pochettino said during the post-match press conference. "It was a normal action in football that happened by accident. There was never any intention … and that is why, for me, it is never a red card."

Pochettino initially hoped the United States could appeal the suspension.

"We need to talk about if we can appeal," he said after the match. "It would be fair to appeal and demonstrate that it wasn't a red card."

FIFA Rule Leaves No Route Back

Under FIFA rules, a player sent off by direct red card or second yellow is automatically suspended for the next match. Reporters told Pochettino during the press conference that this type of sending off cannot be appealed.

That means Balogun is expected to miss the Belgium match, a major blow given his three goals in four World Cup games. He has been the United States’ most dangerous attacking player in the tournament.

"He's disappointed. He's sad because it wasn't his intention," Pochettino said. "But he's also happy because we qualified."

Without Balogun, Pochettino could start Ricardo Pepi as the central striker. Another option is moving Christian Pulisic through the middle and using Timothy Weah on the wing.