The U.S. men's national soccer team will enter the Round of 16 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup without star player Folarin Balogun, following his controversial red card during Wednesday's match against Bosnia Herzegovina. Balogun was sent off early in the second half of the game, a decision that drew immediate criticism from fans and prominent athletes alike.
Notable figures, including NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes and NBA champion Dirk Nowitzki, took to social media to express their disagreement with the referee's call. Former NFL player Jason Kelce questioned the criteria for a red card, noting that Balogun's foul appeared incidental and lacked intention or aggressive, unsafe action. Other athletes and sports analysts echoed these sentiments, with many deeming the decision incorrect and unfair.
Caleb Williams, Adam Housley, JJ Watt, Mike Trudell, and Robert Griffin III were among those who voiced their frustration. Housley called the decision "terrible," and Watt highlighted the "massive implications" for the team's next match. Trudell described it as an "absolutely absurd VAR decision," while Griffin suggested the call was an attempt to prevent the U.S. team's success. Ryan Garcia noted that the team managed to score twice to secure a 2-0 victory despite playing with a man down.
The U.S. advanced to the Round of 16 with the win, setting up a matchup against Belgium. However, the absence of Balogun, considered the team's best player, presents a significant challenge as the U.S. aims for success in the World Cup.