Rubio criticizes World Cup red card for US striker Balogun
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday criticized the dismissal of forward Folarin Balogun during the United States' 2-0 World Cup victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, telling reporters at the White House that the player had been "treated unfairly" and lamenting the absence of an appeals process for the decision.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday criticized the referee's decision to dismiss forward Folarin Balogun during the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup Round of 32, telling reporters at the White House that the striker had been "treated unfairly" by the dismissal.
White House visit
Rubio made the comments while accompanying his daughter, Amanda Loren Rubio, to the White House, briefly entering the press briefing room before declining to answer questions regarding Iran and Lebanon. "They were treated unfairly because of that red card," he told reporters when asked about the national football team, adding: "I wish there were an appeals process for it. But it's probably too late now."
Round of 32 victory
Balogun received the red card during the 2026 FIFA World Cup match, forcing the Americans to complete the contest with 10 players against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the United States secured a 2-0 win to advance to the Round of 16.
The United States will proceed to the knockout stage as the tournament continues across North America, with their next opponent to be determined following the conclusion of remaining group fixtures.
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