League: Champions League Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

USMNT prepares for Belgium without Folarin Balogun in World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 11:35 PM

Last updated Jul 2, 2026

USMNT prepares for Belgium without Folarin Balogun in World Cup

Summary

The US Men's National Team (USMNT) faces Belgium on July 3, 2026, without striker Folarin Balogun, who received a red card during their Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun, who scored the decisive goal in that match, is a key absence for the team, prompting coach Mauricio Pochettino to consider adjustments to the lineup. Options to replace Balogun include Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright, with Pepi likely favored due to his recent playing time. The dynamic play of wingers Christian Pulisic and Sergiño Dest remains crucial for USMNT’s strategy against Belgium's defense.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•USMNT defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina to reach the Round of 16.
•Balogun received a red card and is suspended for the match against Belgium.
•Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright are potential replacements for Balogun.
•Pochettino must decide on adjustments to the lineup and tactics.
•USMNT relies on Pulisic and Dest for attacking threats on the wings.

Latest Updates

11:35 PMYahoo Sports — How the USMNT copes without Folarin Balogun against Belgium

What they're saying

"
How nice of VAR to overshadow one of the most important results in U.S. men’s national team history on Wednesday… The USMNT advanced to the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 after defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina, but lost standout striker Folarin Balogun for the match against Belgium after a 64th-minute red card. Balogun scored the […]
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Champions League Soccer