USMNT striker Folarin Balogun has been handed a one-match suspension following his red card in the Round of 16 victory over England, ruling him out of the quarterfinal clash against Belgium. The Football Association confirmed the suspension on Friday, citing Article 12 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code for serious foul play.
Incident Details
Balogun was sent off in the 78th minute of the USA's 2-1 win over England after a VAR review upgraded his initial yellow card to a red for a dangerous tackle on England midfielder Declan Rice. The challenge, which caught Rice on the ankle, was deemed reckless and endangered the opponent's safety.
According to the match report, referee Felix Zwayer initially showed a yellow card but was advised by VAR to review the incident on the pitchside monitor. After a two-minute review, Zwayer upgraded the punishment, leaving the USMNT to play the final 12 minutes plus stoppage time with 10 men.
Impact on USMNT
The suspension is a significant blow to the USMNT's attacking options. Balogun, who has scored three goals in the tournament, has been a key figure in the team's run to the quarterfinals. Head coach Gregg Berhalter will now have to rely on alternatives such as Josh Sargent or Ricardo Pepi to lead the line against Belgium.
"Losing Folarin is a tough one for us," Berhalter said in a press conference. "He's been in great form, but we have a strong squad and we're confident that whoever steps in will do a job for the team."
Disciplinary Record
This is Balogun's first red card at senior international level. The 23-year-old has had a relatively clean disciplinary record in his career, with only three yellow cards in 45 appearances for club and country combined. The suspension will see him miss the Belgium match but he will be available for the semifinal should the USMNT advance.
The USMNT faces Belgium on July 6 at the Lusail Stadium. Belgium advanced after a 3-0 win over Portugal in the Round of 16. The winner of this quarterfinal will face either Brazil or Argentina in the semifinals.
