FIFA’s decision to rescind Folarin Balogun’s red card has sparked widespread controversy. While American soccer fans celebrate the development, Norway coach Ståle Solbakken criticized the sport’s governing body.
The 58-year-old didn’t mince words, blasting FIFA for what he called a “big mistake.” He also stressed that it could both a blessing and a curse for Team USA.
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“I think that’s a big mistake by FIFA,” Solbakken said, via USA Today. “I think it’s not a great conclusion. He’s got the red card and the VAR concluded that it was a red card. He was sent off. That means you are suspended for one game. I think what’s really is bad about that situation can be that it will be over (the) United States now. Because if they beat Belgium, it will have (that) extra thing about it.”
The referee issued a red card to Balogun in the 64th minute of USA’s Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The team played with only 10 players for remainder of the game but held on for a 2-0 win. The U.S.-Belgium Round of 16 matchup is set for Monday at 8 p.m. ET at Seattle Stadium.
Folarin Balogun at the FIFA World Cup 2026
The 25-year-old striker leads Team USA as the top scorer in the tournament so far. He has recorded three goals, including two against Paraguay. Balogun currently ties for the second most in a single World Cup by an American in history.
He has a chance to tie or surpass Bert Patenaude’s record of four goals set in 1930. The U.S. will rely heavily on Balogun as it aims to reach the quarterfinals and pursue an even deeper run this year.
