Story perspectives

Balogun Red Carded, Misses US-Belgium Round-of-16

7/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

After VAR officials advised a red card for serious foul play, Folarin Balogun was sent off and will miss the United States' round-of-16 match against Belgium.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino said the dismissal was accidental and not a red-card offense.
Balogun had been the tournament’s leading scorer for the United States with three goals.
Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright and other attackers are being considered as possible replacements for the suspended striker.

History

Historical Context

Balogun’s VAR-issued red card in the 2026 knockout match against Belgium echoes a pattern of decisive expulsions in World Cup history. The first European dismissal occurred when England’s David Beckham was sent off in 1998, and the tournament that set the record for most send-offs—2006—saw 28 players expelled. Such incidents repeatedly force coaches like Mauricio Pochettino to reshuffle line-ups.

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Story summary

After VAR officials advised a red card for serious foul play, Folarin Balogun was sent off and will miss the United States' round-of-16 match against Belgium.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino said the dismissal was accidental and not a red-card offense.
Balogun had been the tournament’s leading scorer for the United States with three goals.
Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright and other attackers are being considered as possible replacements for the suspended striker.

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