The United States secured their place in the World Cup last 16 with a 2 to 0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but their victory came with a major setback. Folarin Balogun scored the opening goal before being sent off in the second half, meaning he will miss the upcoming knockout match against Belgium.
Balogun gives USA the lead before dismissal
The co hosts found the breakthrough shortly before half time in Santa Clara. Balogun finished the move with composure and lifted the home crowd after a tense first half.
The match changed in the 62nd minute when Balogun challenged Tarik Muharemovic while chasing a loose ball. At first, play continued and the incident did not appear to cause major concern among the officials.
VAR then advised the referee to review the challenge on the pitch side monitor. Replays showed Balogun’s studs catching Muharemovic’s calf before turning the defender’s ankle. After the review, the referee issued a straight red card.
Tillman seals the win as USA hold firm
Playing with 10 men, USA had to protect their lead for almost half an hour. Bosnia struggled to take advantage and finished the match with only 0.29 expected goals, underlining how well the hosts defended after the dismissal.
The decisive second goal arrived in the 80th minute. Malik Tillman stepped up for a free kick just outside the area, lifted the ball over the wall and beat goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj with a precise finish.
That goal settled the contest and confirmed USA’s progress to the next round. Their reward is a last 16 meeting with Belgium in Seattle, although Balogun’s absence will leave the hosts with an important attacking decision to make.
