USA midfielder Malik Tillman disclosed that he made a last-minute cleat change moments before scoring a pivotal free-kick in the team's World Cup knockout stage win against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The United States secured a 2-0 victory, marking their second-ever World Cup knockout round win.
Folarin Balogun opened the scoring for the co-hosts before Tillman extended their lead with a second-half free-kick. In his post-game media availability, the 24-year-old revealed the tactical adjustment stemming from an injury.
"Yeah, I was in pain and my shoe was cut, so this is why I changed the boot," Tillman told reporters. "Someone stepped on me. But yeah, it's just pain. Nothing too bad."
Videos circulating after the match showed Tillman with a bloody sock revealing a hole, a visible testament to the injury. Fans online expressed astonishment that his first touch with the altered footwear resulted in a goal.
Tillman's goal propelled the USA into the World Cup's Round of 16, where they are scheduled to face Belgium. The victory began with Balogun's first-half goal, which came after he intercepted a pass from the Bosnian defense.
Controversial Red Card
The match took a turn in the second half when Balogun received a red card for a challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic. While initially appearing minor, replays indicated Balogun's cleats scraped the back of Muharemovic's leg. The decision drew significant criticism on social media and from prominent figures, including Brittany and Patrick Mahomes, as well as Jason Kelce.
USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino stated his disagreement with the red card, calling it "never a red card." The dismissal means Balogun will be unavailable for the USA's next match against Belgium on July 6. The team cannot appeal the decision.