Balogun makes World Cup history with goal and red card in USA win
USA's Folarin Balogun became only the fourth player in World Cup history to score a goal and receive a red card in a knockout match, as USA defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 in San Francisco on Thursday. The 24-year-old scored in the first half, then accidentally stepped on defender Tarik Muharemovic's ankle in the second half, leading to his dismissal.
USA coach Mauricio Pochettino defended Balogun post-match, calling it "never intentional" and describing it as "a normal action in football that happens by accident." The win advances USA to the Round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup.
Balogun joins an exclusive list: Zinedine Zidane (1998 final), Ronaldinho (2002 quarter-final), and Garrincha (1962 semi-final) are the only other players to achieve this rare feat. Notably, Balogun's international choice sparked debate—he opted for USA over Nigeria despite his Nigerian heritage.
For Nigerian fans, this raises questions about missed opportunities with diaspora talent. The Super Eagles could have had Balogun's World Cup experience in their ranks instead of watching him make history with the USMNT.
Could Nigeria's football development benefit if diaspora players felt stronger pull toward the Super Eagles jersey?