World Cup Red Card Controversy: US Fans Support National Team, Disagree with FIFA Ruling

2026 World Cup Key News

(Central News Agency, San Francisco, July 6) -- The US team lost to Belgium in the Round of 16 knockout match of the World Cup today. Regarding the US forward Balogun's red card while still being allowed to play, many fans interviewed stated that while they support their national team, they do not believe the handling of the situation was fair. "A red card is a red card, it cannot be easily changed."

The US team has repeatedly been eliminated in the Round of 16 in past World Cups, including the previous Qatar World Cup. This year, the US is participating as a host nation and has garnered high expectations from fans. However, they were ultimately defeated by Belgium in the Round of 16, failing to advance to the quarterfinals.

The match was held in Seattle, and viewing parties were organized in multiple cities in the San Francisco Bay Area to cheer for the US team.

A large viewing party at San Pedro Square in San Jose was packed with people. Many fans stood in the adjacent parking lot, waving national flags and chanting "U.S.A.," creating a strong atmosphere of patriotism.

Due to a recent shooting incident at the same location that resulted in one death and one serious injury, several police officers were present for security.

Fan Yuval, standing at the front, told CNA excitedly that it was his first time attending a viewing party. "It feels really great, everyone comes out to support our country together."

However, controversy surrounding US forward Folarin Balogun's red card had been ongoing before the match. US President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino last week, requesting a review of the red card decision against Balogun. FIFA later announced a temporary suspension of Balogun's ban.

Despite an appeal from the Belgian Football Association, FIFA ruled it inadmissible, leading to strong doubts about the fairness of the match.

Regarding this controversy, many US fans interviewed said, "Although the ruling is favorable to the US, it's not very fair."

Sophia and Selina, attending the viewing party together, told CNA that as Americans, they naturally support the US team. "But I don't think FIFA should be politicized, so I feel the ruling is unfair."

Sean, who attended alone, held the same view. He said it has been a great World Cup, one of the most exciting ever, "but FIFA shouldn't have done that. A red card is a red card, you can't change it."

Sean believes that if a referee makes a mistake, they can admit it was a misjudgment; but they shouldn't change the penalty after the game has ended.

The Connollys stated, "We're not very happy with the decision, but we're also happy for the player (Balogun)... I don't like the process, but I like the result. It's hard to explain."

Despite the US team's eventual loss, Connolly supported the national team, saying, "They exceeded my expectations." (Editor: Chen Hui-ping) 1150707

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