Florian Balogun's Red Card Sparks VAR Controversy as Messi Incident Comparison Divides Fans

July 02, 2026: The controversy began in the 62nd minute of the match when Florian Balogun challenged Bosnian defender Tarik Muharremovic while both players were fighting for possession.

Muharremovic got ahead of Balogun and moved towards the ball. As the Bosnian defender tried to clear it with his left foot, Balogun attempted to block him from behind. In the process, Balogun's right foot landed on the back of Muharremovic's right ankle.

Referee Felix Klaus did not stop play immediately and allowed the game to continue. However, both players stayed on the ground after the challenge, forcing the referee to stop the match. During the stoppage, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) asked Klaus to review the incident on the pitchside monitor. After watching the replay, the referee changed his decision and showed Balogun a straight red card.

Messi Incident Brings VAR Consistency Into Question

The red card quickly sparked comparisons with Lionel Messi's challenge in Argentina's opening match of the tournament.

In that game, Messi stepped on Algerian defender Aïssa Mandi's foot with the sole of his boot. Algeria's players appealed for a straight red card, but Polish referee Szymon Marciniak awarded only a foul and did not show Messi any card.

Many fans and pundits questioned why Messi escaped punishment while Balogun was sent off after a VAR review.

Rio Ferdinand Questions Different Decisions

Former England defender Rio Ferdinand criticised the lack of consistency in VAR decisions while speaking on BBC.

"This is exactly where people question VAR. Everyone wants to see the same application of the rules. We all remember that tackle by Messi against Algeria. Many people think it was a straight red-card offence, but it was not properly investigated and no punishment was given. Now look at Balogun's tackle. VAR intervened, the referee went to the monitor, and suddenly a straight red card was shown. This difference in applying the rules is what frustrates players, coaches and fans."

MISMA FALTA, DIFERENTE CASTIGO

Balogun recibió TARJETA ROJA directa, mientras que Lionel Messi se fue SIN CASTIGO por una entrada prácticamente igual 🇺🇸🇦🇷

¿Crees que se le perdonó la roja a Messi? 👇👀 pic.twitter.com/2mSSo8v5QB

— 365Scores México🇲🇽 (@365scoresMX) July 2, 2026

Sue Smith and Clint Dempsey Also Disagree

Former England women's striker Sue Smith also felt the decision was too harsh.

"When you watch the replay, you might think it is a 100% red card. But if you watch it at normal speed, it looks much harsher. Unfortunately, his foot was simply in the wrong place."

Former United States striker Clint Dempsey also criticised the decision.

"Instead of talking about the football, we're talking about the referees. I think the United States has been punished too harshly. Florian Balogun didn't commit an offence worthy of a straight red card. You have to be 100% sure before making a decision in such a big match."

Mauricio Pochettino Defends Balogun

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino also believed the challenge did not deserve a straight red card.

"It could never be a red card. He had no intention of stepping on the opponent's foot."

When asked about the similar incident involving Messi, Pochettino said neither challenge deserved a sending-off.

"Neither of them were fouls worthy of a red card."

Balogun to Miss Belgium Clash

Following the dismissal, Balogun has been suspended for the United States' Round of 16 match against Belgium. His absence will be a major blow for Mauricio Pochettino's side as they prepare for the knockout clash.