American soccer player Weston McKennie calls Fololin Balogun’s red card suspension a “phony”
Folarin Balogun’s red card will be considered a red for Team USA fans.
The U.S. forward received a shocking disciplinary action for a foul on Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic during a World Cup Round of 32 game in Santa Clara, California, on July 1.
As players scrambled for the ball, Balogun tangled with Muharemovic as he tried to get into position, and his foot ended up hitting the defender’s ankle. The referee gave Balogun a red card after checking the replay through a VAR review.
The 24-year-old was not only sent off for the remaining games, but will also be suspended from the next game against Belgium in the Round of 16, where the United States defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina by a final score of 2-0 and became the first men’s team to advance to the knockout stages in 24 years.
For those thinking of appealing the red card and suspension, FIFA officials told The Athletic that this was not possible, citing regulations. Still, some of Balogun’s teammates are claiming fouls on the call.
