The USMNT has advanced to the next round in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup continue their phenomenal run following a dominant 2-0 win vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.
However, the biggest talking point about the game is not the goals, but the referee’s controversial decision to send off star forward Folarin Balogan in the second half.
Alexi Lalas calls out Folarin Balogun’s red card decision with Lionel Messi point
The ref’s decision to hand a red card to Balogun post a VAR check over a foul on Tarik Muharemovic has sent shockwaves throughout the USMNT fanbase.
This includes country legend Alexi Lalas, who compared Balogun’s foul to one of Lionel Messi’s overlooked calls in this World Cup itself.
Lalas posted a short clip of Messi’s controversial no foul call when he put his cleats to the legs of an Algerian player earlier in the group stages.
In simple terms, Lalas was comparing Balogun’s foul to that of Messi and questioning the refs turning a blind eye to one foul, but handing a red card for another.
Folarin Balogun’s red card spells trouble for USMNT
While Balogun’s red card call didn’t have much impact on the USMNT’s result vs. Bosnia, the same cannot be said for what it means for their Round of 16 matchup.
The hosts are all set to face off against Belgium in the next round of knockouts, but as things stand right now, they will have to play without Balogun.
This is concerning as the 24-year-old is having a stunning tournament and already has three goals to his name, including one against Bosnia.
The USMNT will likely appeal the decision, but if Balogun’s red card and suspension aren’t overturned, it would increase the chances of the hosts’ elimination in the next round.
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