Balogun Reflects on Red Card Ahead of Belgium Match

SEATTLE – Folarin Balogun, just two days after his red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, shared his thoughts on the situation. He believes he “could have received a yellow card” for the tackle on Tarik Muhamerovic, but he remains focused on supporting his team in the upcoming Round of 16 clash against Belgium.

“It was like a whirlwind of emotions. Some were upset, while others were thrilled. Honestly, it felt surreal,” Balogun expressed in his first remarks since the incident. “Keeping calm was crucial for me. Reacting out of anger or emotion is never my goal.”

“We have a lot of people looking up to us, young kids and others. It’s essential to handle situations the right way, even if it’s frustrating. I feel we managed to do that. The support I’ve received, for myself and the team, has been wonderful. I think we’re all eager to see what we can accomplish against Belgium.”

A spokesperson from U.S. Soccer confirmed that FIFA upheld Balogun’s one-match suspension. Although there was no option to appeal for a reduced ban, the possibility of an extension loomed.

The red card incident became a notable talking point during the World Cup. Balogun and Muhamerovic were vying for the ball when Balogun inadvertently caught the back of the defender’s leg with his boot. While the move was undoubtedly risky, slow-motion replays painted the challenge in a harsher light than it appeared initially, and Balogun’s intent did not appear malicious.

Comparisons to a similar tackle by Argentina’s Lionel Messi, which went unpunished earlier in the tournament, have not gone unnoticed. Balogun stated, “If you’ve played before, you know these situations happen, and context matters when reviewing them. I didn’t feel like that was considered here. Sometimes, there’s just no other place your foot can go. So, I think a yellow card might have been fair. It happened, and now I’m trying to look ahead and accept it.”

Balogun had scored a goal during the match against Bosnia, showcasing his off-ball movement and decision-making as essential attributes for the U.S. Men’s National Team. Unfortunately, he won’t be available for the next match.

As for who might step up in his place, strikers Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright are solid options. Coach Mauricio Pochettino could also consider shifting Christian Pulisic or Weston McKennie into a striking role, or even starting Gio Reyna.

Balogun mentioned he hasn’t given direct advice to Pepi or Wright, but he’s open to helping whenever needed. “I’m here for whatever he needs,” he said of Pepi. “Anyone on the team looking for guidance? I’m happy to support.”

After the game, Balogun, who had been in the dressing room as the match concluded, joined the crowd in celebration, even singing along to John Denver’s “Country Roads.” During the festivities, he spotted referee Rafael Kraus and shook his hand.

“Even if you feel slighted, it’s no reason to act rudely or lose sight of decency,” Balogun noted. “I always make it a point to shake hands with the referee after a match, and this one was no different. Setting a positive example is what matters most to me for everyone watching.”

“We recognize that a lot of viewers might be tuning into the World Cup for the first time. It’s vital to show that, regardless of what happens, whether good or bad, just be true to yourself.”