Folarin Balogun faced a controversial red card after a VAR review during the USA’s World Cup victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday evening.

Balogun opened the scoring for the US in the first half but found himself in a state of shock when he received the red card midway through the second half. The incident occurred as Balogun tussled for the ball with Tarik Muharemovic, resulting in their legs tangling. Super-slow motion replays revealed Balogun’s leg scraping down the calf of the Bosnian defender.

Initially, Brazilian referee Raphael Claus did not award a free-kick, but after play was halted due to injuries, VAR officials referred Claus to the pitchside screen. Following the review, the red card was promptly issued.

This decision drew comparisons to Lionel Messi’s unpunished challenge in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria, where he escaped sanction altogether. Commentator Sue Smith remarked on Balogun’s situation, stating:

“When it [the replay] stops like that, you think one hundred per cent red card, but I think when you watch it in real time it's really harsh.”
She added that Balogun was merely trying to protect the ball and it was unfortunate where he planted his foot.

Despite being a man down, the USA managed to secure the win, with Malik Tillman scoring a stunning free-kick eight minutes before the final whistle.

As a result of the red card, Balogun faces a minimum one-match suspension for serious foul play, with the possibility of additional games depending on the FIFA disciplinary committee's review. According to FIFA’s disciplinary code, there are no grounds for an appeal.