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In what may go down as the biggest controversy of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, United States Men’s National Team forward Flo Balogun was hit with a red card in the team’s 2-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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The leading goal scorer for the Stars and Stripes, Balogun, accidentally landed on the back of Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic’s leg as the two battled for position. Many around the sport were baffled by the decision, which came via VAR, but even more were stunned to learn that there was no way to overturn the call and that Balogun could be suspended for the next two matches.
On Friday, it was confirmed by a FIFA spokesperson that Balogun will only be suspended for Team USA’s Round of 16 clash with Belgium on Monday.
Per #USMNT spokesperson, FIFA has confirmed that Folarin Balogun is suspended for one game.
— Doug McIntyre (@ByDougMcIntyre) July 3, 2026
When asked about FIFA’s decision at Friday’s training session, Balogun told the media scrum that while he felt he could have been let off with a yellow card, there is nothing he can do about it.
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“For me, I think a yellow card would have been fair,” Balogun said via Tom Bogert of The Athletic. It’s something that happened and I have to accept it.”
At this time, it is unclear who USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino will tab to replace Balogun against Belgium, but there does seem to be plenty of buzz around Ricardo Pepi.
Regardless of who it is, the Stars and Stripes will need a big performance to help make up for the absence of Balogun, who has scored three goals in as many matches. The winner of U.S. and Belgium will play the winner of Spain and Portugal next Friday.
Monday’s game will kick off at 8:00 p.m. ET and air on Fox, Telemundo and Fox One.
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Related: Brittany Mahomes Reacts to Flo Balogun Red Card Amid World Cup
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