Folarin Balogun scored before being sent off as the United States defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in Santa Clara to book their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side produced an energetic and creative display, fully deserving their victory, which was sealed by Malik Tillman’s late free-kick.
Balogun gave the hosts the lead after reacting quickest to steer Tillman’s deflected pass beyond Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj.
However, the Monaco striker’s evening took a dramatic turn shortly after the hour mark when he was shown a straight red card following a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic, with his studs catching the defender’s calf near the ankle.
Despite playing with 10 men, the United States remained in control as Bosnia struggled to create meaningful chances. Tillman wrapped up the victory with a superb curling free-kick to extinguish any hopes of a late comeback.
The United States will face in Seattle on Monday, July 6, for a place in the quarter-finals.
