The United States secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 after a shutout victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Folarin Balogun's red card suspension will keep him out of the next match against Belgium.

What happened?

Balogun clashed with Bosnia's Tarik Muharemovic in the 64th minute, prompting a video assistant referee review. The referee issued a red card for serious foul play, automatically suspending Balogun for one game.

Why it matters for United States

The team will face Belgium without one of its key goal scorers. Balogun's first-half goal marked his team-high third of the tournament and 11th overall.

What comes next?

The United States will face Belgium on July 6 in Seattle, marking the fourth appearance in the Round of 16 in their last four World Cup appearances. | Date | Opponent | Location | | --- | --- | --- | | July 6 | Belgium | Seattle |

The FIFA World Cup 26 regulations state that a player sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card will be automatically suspended from their team's subsequent match. US Soccer told ABC News there is no mechanism for appeal.

Mauricio Pochettino, the United States head coach, said Balogun was 'sad' and 'disappointed' in the locker room. 'For me, never is it a red card -- Never was there intention to step on the player,' Pochettino said.

Weston McKennie, a teammate and midfielder, told reporters that 'in this stage of the tournament where every player is important, I think it's a bit bogus.' Balogun's suspension poses a challenge for the United States as they face Belgium in the next round.