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Red Card Shocker: Balogun Out for USMNT vs. Belgium
2 Jul
Summary
- Folarin Balogun received a red card in the round of 32 match.
- FIFA rules mandate a one-game suspension for red card offenses.
- The USMNT will face Belgium in the round of 16 on July 6.
The United States men's national team has progressed to the 2026 World Cup round of 16, but will likely be without a key player. Folarin Balogun received a red card during the round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute for stepping on an opponent's ankle. Under FIFA regulations, a red card results in an automatic one-game suspension, meaning Balogun will miss the upcoming match against Belgium on July 6.
The World Cup knockout stage is a single-elimination tournament. The USMNT's round of 16 opponent is Belgium, with the match scheduled for July 6 in Seattle. This suspension poses a significant challenge for the team as they move forward in the competition.
Several teams have already secured their spots in the round of 16, including Canada, Brazil, France, Mexico, England, Belgium, and the United States. The tournament bracket outlines the path to the final, with quarterfinal and semifinal matchups already mapped out.
