USA's Top Scorer to Miss Round of 16 as Internet Erupts Over Messi Comparison

Folarin Balogun put his team ahead in the 45th minute, but was controversially sent off in the second half, sparking widespread debate. The comparison between his foul and a challenge by the Argentine superstar became a major talking point on social media.

"The internet is ablaze comparing Balogun's red-card tackle to Messi's challenge in the first match, which went unpunished," Spanish newspaper Diario AS posted on its profile.

"Players who scored and received a red card in the World Cup knockout stage: Folarin Balogun – Round of 16 2026, Zinedine Zidane – Final 2006, Ronaldinho – Quarter-final 2002, Garrincha – Semi-final 1962. Balogun will be suspended for the Round of 16 match against Belgium," reported The Athletic.

"Two very similar incidents: Folarin Balogun: red card, Lionel Messi: unpunished," added journalist Ben Jacobs, who also reported in a subsequent social media post that, according to FIFA rules, the 25-year-old forward cannot appeal the referee's decision.

"USA advance at World Cup despite 'disgraceful' VAR decision," assessed talkSPORT.

"Flo Balogun really scored, got a red card, and came back with some diamond earrings," noted ESPN FC.

"US striker Folarin Balogun just received a red card for this tackle against Bosnia and Herzegovina. In Argentina's first group stage match against Algeria, Leo Messi attempted a similar slide tackle but received no card despite contact with his opponent's calf. Did either of these tackles deserve a red card?" questioned Yahoo Sports.

"American fans on social media are furious after Balogun's red card in the match against Bosnia. Many believe that if Balogun was sent off for this tackle, Lionel Messi should also have received a red card in the match against Algeria.

USA fans do not understand the differing criteria and consider both tackles almost identical. They are now demanding an explanation from FIFA for what they perceive as inconsistent officiating," wrote The Touchline.

Experienced Polish journalist Przemyslaw Garczarczyk also highlighted the same issue.