TSN Sports reports that USA striker Folarin Balogun is automatically suspended for the Round of 16 match against Belgium due to a red card received vs Bosnia and Herzegovina, per FIFA rules.
Balogun scored the opening goal in the 2-0 win but was sent off after VAR review for stepping on an opponent's ankle/foot in what many view as an accidental foul.
The red card decision is widely criticized as overly harsh and protocol-misapplied, sparking debate on soccer's disciplinary rules and potential for appeal.
Folarin Balogun has been automatically suspended for the USA's Round of 16 match against Belgium due to the red card he received against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) July 2, 2026
As per FIFA, "If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution),… pic.twitter.com/gXw6Wqo4m8
TSN Sports reports that Folarin Balogun is automatically suspended for the USA's World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium due to the red card he received in the Bosnia-Herzegovina game. Balogun scored in the first half but was shown a red card in the second half after a VAR review for a foul involving stomping on an opponent's ankle; the USA won the match 2-0. The decision is widely considered controversial, with some arguing it was unintentional and did not comply with VAR protocols. FIFA rules stipulate a one-match suspension.