Rubio Roars: U.S. Striker Folarin Balogun “Got Screwed” by Red Card That Could Cost Him World Cup Clash

Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed strong displeasure Thursday over the red card shown to American striker Folarin Balogun during the U.S. men’s national soccer team’s 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday night in Santa Clara, California.

“They got screwed with that red card,” Rubio stated at the White House. “There needs to be an appeal process for that. It’s probably too late for that.”

Balogun, 24, leads the United States with three goals in the tournament, including the opening goal Wednesday night. However, Brazilian referee Raphael Claus issued a red card in the 64th minute following a video review of a challenge on Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic, triggering an automatic one-match suspension.

The U.S. has no pathway to appeal the immediate red-card suspension, though Balogun could face extended punishment if FIFA’s disciplinary panel deems the incident worthy of additional sanctions. A U.S. Soccer spokesperson indicated the federation would challenge any suspension exceeding a single match.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr labeled the decision “a total bunk” in a post on X. Many observers concurred Balogun committed a foul, noting his shoe made contact with Muharemovic’s ankle while both players chased the ball. U.S. captain Tyler Adams suggested the penalty was incorrect, stating, “I think it’s a yellow card.”