Here’s the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-03 13:13:00.
SEATTLE — Two days after the U.S. men’s national team’s 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, fans continue to express frustration with VAR decisions. Striker Folarin Balogun’s red card in the 64th minute, confirmed after a lengthy VAR review, has sparked feelings of injustice reminiscent of 2002’s controversial World Cup incident involving Germany and the U.S.
Despite fans’ hopes, Balogun’s suspension will stand as FIFA regulations only allow appeals for mistaken identity. This means he will miss the crucial round-of-16 match against Belgium.
USMNT must now strategize to manage Balogun’s absence. U.S. attacker Christian Pulisic has voiced support for Balogun, saying, “I just told him he’s done so much for us, and now we got his back.” Coach Mauricio Pochettino has a few options to fill the striker role, although one option, playing Pulisic as a central striker, did not yield favorable results in a prior match against Portugal.
In that match, Pulisic struggled against stronger defenses, winning only one duel out of seven. Fortunately, Pochettino has alternatives in strikers Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright, both of whom are eager for more playing time. Wright has expressed his readiness to step up if needed.
Pepi has logged more minutes during this World Cup and has superior link-up play statistics compared to Wright. With Balogun’s ability to evade defenders absent, Pepi’s passing could be a vital asset against Belgium. Both players also possess aerial strength, making them effective targets for crosses, an area where U.S. fullbacks such as Antonee Robinson need to improve.
If Pepi can provide some of the creative flair that relieved Pulisic of burden in prior matches, the U.S. could enhance its chances against Belgium. Given the stakes of this game, the hope remains that Balogun’s World Cup journey isn’t over yet.
FAQs
How long is Balogun’s suspension?
Balogun’s suspension details are unclear, but he will miss the match against Belgium.
Who will replace Balogun in the lineup?
Ricardo Pepi is the leading candidate to start in place of Balogun.
Key Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-03 13:13:00
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Tags: #USMNT #cope #suspended #striker #Balogun
Tags: #USMNT #cope #suspended #striker #Balogun
