SAN JOSE, Calif. – A Brief Celebration

The excitement of victory didn’t last long. When the U.S. national team arrived back at its practice field at Paypal Park on Thursday morning, the music had stopped, the adrenaline had waned, and the reality of facing Belgium in the Round of 16 settled in like the dense Bay Area fog.

The Americans managed to overcome Bosnia and Herzegovina, but now they had to prepare for the challenge ahead with fewer players.

A controversial red card shown to Folarin Balogun during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory in Santa Clara not only forced the U.S. team to play the last 30 minutes with just 10 men, but it also stripped Mauricio Pochettino’s squad of its most formidable attacking player ahead of Monday’s crucial match in Seattle against one of the world’s elite teams.

After Thursday’s practice, players and coaches avoided speaking to reporters, and the silence was telling.

Meanwhile, conversations about the controversial VAR decision are buzzing elsewhere.

Sports radio, TV talk shows, podcasts, and social media channels have ignited debates. Even Merriam-Webster and former USMNT coach Bruce Arena chimed in about how pivotal this VAR decision has been in the ongoing World Cup story.

Inside the American locker room after the game, there was little doubt about the players’ views on the situation.

Midfielder Weston McKennie expressed, “The players discussed it in the dressing room. It’s a decision made by the referee, but it raises questions.” He continued, “There were many similar situations during the tournament that didn’t warrant a card at all. It’s disheartening. Some teammates believe it should have been a yellow card, just not intentional.”

Pochettino was candid about his disappointment post-match.

He stated, “For me, it was never a red card. There was no intention whatsoever. It was simply a normal occurrence in football. It wasn’t deliberate.” Later, as the players viewed the replay on their phones, their disbelief shifted to acceptance.

Captain Tyler Adams commented, “I think it should’ve been a yellow. Things often escalate when you watch them in slow motion.” When told that FIFA’s regulations offered no room for U.S. Soccer to appeal the suspension, he merely shrugged and said, “It’s typical FIFA.”

McKennie’s take was even more blunt. He described the inability to appeal the decision as “a bit bogus.” He added, “Even though we lose a player for the next match, someone else will step up to help the team.”

Frustration over inconsistent officiating continues. Fans quickly shared clips of similar challenges that didn’t even receive a foul, including one involving Lionel Messi. U.S. soccer officials discreetly showed reporters a collection of comparable incidents where no red cards or fouls were given.

It’s clear most people agree that Balogun did commit a foul. His foot made contact with Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle while both were pursuing a loose ball. It might have warranted a punishment, perhaps even a yellow card.

But context matters. Balogun didn’t see the defender and had no intention of causing harm. Now the U.S. team heads into the tournament’s most significant match without their striker, who had scored in every World Cup game and has been the team’s key player. Had he played against Belgium, he could have easily been in contention for the Golden Boot, and it seemed he was headed for his third Man of the Match award.

Bosnia couldn’t contain Balogun’s potential. Yet, the VAR system succeeded in its role.