USA and Monaco striker Folarin Balogun experienced a bittersweet night during his side's round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday. He scored a goal but also joined an unwanted list of players who have both scored and been sent off in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.
Balogun's Historic Goal and Red Card
Balogun netted his third goal of the tournament, becoming the third USA player to score three or more goals in a single World Cup edition, after Bert Patenaude (4 in 1930) and Landon Donovan (3 in 2010), according to Opta Analyst. However, he also became the fourth player after Zinedine Zidane (2006 final), Ronaldinho (2002 quarter-final), and Garrincha (1962 semi-final) to have scored a goal and been sent off during a World Cup knockout match.
USA's Best World Cup Performance
This victory marked the USA's third win in this year's tournament, the most they have ever won in a single edition, per Opta Analyst. Due to his red card, Balogun will miss the round of 16 match against Belgium scheduled for July 7 at 5:30 am IST, as per FIFA's suspension mandate.
Match Summary: First Half Dominance
Bosnia forced an early corner but failed to capitalize. The USA created early chances through Christian Pulisic and Balogun. In the 8th minute, Bosnia's attempt was punched away. Balogun had a goal disallowed for offside in the 31st minute. In the 45th minute, Balogun finally scored, receiving a pass from Sergino Dest that took a nick off Muharemovic, driving it past goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj. This was his third goal of the tournament, making him the second USA player to score three goals in a World Cup. Moments later, Balogun hit the bar. The USA dominated with over 62% ball possession, five shots, and 19 touches in the opposition box, with Balogun accounting for 14 of those touches.
Second Half: Red Card and Tillman's Goal
After the break, Bosnia made three substitutions, with Dzeko clutching his quad while attempting to press. Bosnia gained some possession early in the second half, but a Katic attempt from 40 yards was wasteful. In the 61st minute, Balogun and Muharemovic had a nasty tangle, with Balogun shown a red card for a dangerous challenge. Muharemovic recovered and returned to his feet. In the 82nd minute, Malik Tillman added a second goal for the USA, and the score remained 2-0 until the final whistle.
