Balogun scored three goals in the tournament – AFP
USA 2 : 0 Bosnia
Praised or criticized—how are American fans viewing Folarin Balogun today?
The 24-year-old forward scored a goal and received a red card in the same match. In one instance, he was the hero of the celebration; in the other, he put his team in jeopardy. Ultimately, however, Balogun should be pleased. Despite being reduced to ten men, the USA defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2–0 to secure a spot in the World Cup Round of 16. They will face Belgium in the battle for a quarter-final berth.
From the start of the match in the San Francisco Bay Area, the USA dominated the attack, with Balogun at the heart of it. Before his red card, the USA had taken five shots, four of which came from him. He also recorded the highest number of touches (seven) inside the opponent’s penalty area.
Balogun put the USA ahead in the first half.
Balogun put the USA ahead in the first half. (Reuters)
The USA was rewarded for its dominance during stoppage time in the first half. The ball changed direction after deflecting off defender Tarik Muharemovic; capitalizing on the opportunity, Balogun fired a left-footed shot that went through the goalkeeper’s legs and into the net. This was his third goal of the tournament, following the two he scored against Paraguay.
Bosnia had a chance to turn the tide in the second half. In the 61st minute, Balogun made a rough tackle on Muharemovic. Although initially shown a yellow card, the referee changed the decision after reviewing the incident via VAR, and the American striker was sent off with a straight red card.
Balogun had to leave the field after receiving a red card.
Balogun had to leave the field after receiving a red card. (Reuters)
Despite playing the final half-hour with ten men, the USA was not put under significant pressure by Bosnia; instead, Malik Tillman doubled the lead in the 82nd minute with a magnificent free-kick. That goal sealed the victory for the hosts.
With this win, the United States won a World Cup knockout stage match for the first time since 2002.
