India, July 2 -- All three co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have booked their places in the Round of 16, with the United States completing the trio after a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina to set up a last-16 clash against Belgium.

Yet, despite the victory, the biggest talking point from the Round-of-32 contest in Santa Clara was the dismissal of Folarin Balogun.

One mistimed challenge, one trip to the pitchside monitor, and the striker who had put the United States ahead saw his night unravel. Balogun walked off in visible distress after referee Raphael Claus upgraded his challenge to a straight red card following a VAR review.

The decision immediately sparked debate. Television pundits questioned whether the challenge warranted...