The United States secured a deserved win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in San Francisco to set up a Last 16 clash with Belgium in Seattle, but the victory came with a major setback: Folarin Balogun was sent off late in the match and faces at least a one-game suspension. Balogun, 24, who scored a brilliant hat-trick to become just the third American to net three goals in a single World Cup edition, appeared to trip over a Bosnia defender’s ankle in an accidental-looking incident. After review, referee Raphael Claus issued a straight red, etching Balogun alongside famous players who both scored and were sent off in knockout games.
The dismissal rules Balogun out of the Belgium match and could lead to a longer FIFA ban that would jeopardize his availability for the quarter-final or semi-final if the USMNT advances. Ricardo Pepi a long-time Fulham target and currently with PSV is the most likely replacement, though he has yet to score at this tournament.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino used the moment to rally his squad, reminding them of his march-on mantra, “Why not us?” Players echoed that unity: defender Chris Richards said the team will “have his back” and stressed the USMNT is built to absorb one absence and keep performing. Former England forward Sue Smith praised the US defence and professionalism after the red card, saying the result showed the Americans can surprise opponents and will pose a tough test for Belgium.
Key takeaways
- Match result: USA beat Bosnia and Herzegovina to reach the Last 16.
- Balogun: Hat-trick hero, then sent off; suspended for at least the next game.
- Impact: Potential extended ban could rule him out of later knockout rounds.
- Replacement: Ricardo Pepi likely to start but without goals so far in the tournament.
- Team response: Pochettino and players emphasize squad unity and belief “Why not us?”
