Folarin Balogun is ruled out of the United States’ World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium after receiving a straight red card in the team’s Round of 32 match versus Bosnia and Herzegovina. Multiple reports say referee Raphael Claus issued the dismissal following a VAR review of a tackle in which Balogun stepped onto Bosnia’s ankle area, with the red card shown in the 63rd to 65th minute range. The US played the remainder of the match with 10 men and still won 2-0 (or 2-1 in one account) to secure qualification for the knockout stage. The sources also describe the call as controversial, with some coverage questioning whether the red card was justified. Several outlets note that, under competition rules, the suspension applies unless an appeal overturns the decision. One report specifically addresses the USMNT’s inability to appeal the suspension, indicating there may be no route to reinstate Balogun for the Belgium match. Overall, the US’ availability concern centers on whether the red card stands, with most accounts treating his suspension as confirmed.