World Cup Red Card Controversy: US Fans Say They Support the Team, But Don't Agree with FIFA's Ruling

2026 World Cup Key News

(Central News Agency, San Francisco, July 6) -- The US team lost to Belgium today in the Round of 16 knockout stage of the World Cup. Regarding US forward Balogun being able to play despite receiving a red card, many fans interviewed said that while they support their national team, they do not believe this handling of the situation is 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 competed as a host nation, with 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 also organized in multiple cities in the San Francisco Bay Area to cheer for the US team.

A large crowd gathered at San Pedro Square in San Jose for a viewing party. Many fans even 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 on duty.

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

However, the 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 to dismiss it, leading to strong doubts about the fairness of the competition.

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 don't think the ruling is fair."

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 should not change the penalty after the game has ended.

The Connollys said, "We are not very happy with this decision, but we are 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 have exceeded my expectations." (Editor: Chen Hui-ping) 1150707

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