USMNT's Balogun says red card, ban vs. Belgium an 'emotional roller coaster' - ESPN

SEATTLE — United States men's national team forward Folarin Balogun said that he's been on an emotional «roller coaster» in the wake of his sending off against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Wednesday, but he intends to «support the boys» in the coming days as the team prepares to play Belgium in the World Cup round of 16.

Balogun scored the U.S. opener in the 45th minute, but was then sent off in the 64th for what was deemed a bad challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic.

The U.S. was able to survive for the remaining 36 minutes that included 10 minutes of stoppage time.

The USMNT was even able to pad its lead thanks to Malik Tillman's 82nd-minute goal from a direct free kick.

The USMNT received word on Friday that Balogun will serve a one-match ban, so if the U.S. prevails against Belgium, Balogun would be eligible to return for the quarterfinals.

«It's been a roller coaster. There's been lots of different emotions,» Balogun told reporters on Friday.

«I've been upset. I've been happy. It's been surreal, to be honest. But for me, I think it was just important to stay calm. I never want to react out of anger and out of emotion. There's still lots of people we're inspiring, little kids, boys and girls who are watching, and we have to show them the correct way to handle things even when you think it's unjust.

»So I felt I did that. And as I said, I'm happy with the support, not just I'm receiving, but the team. And I think we're all looking forward to seeing what we can do against Belgium."

That said, Balogun felt that the decision to send him off lacked context given that he and Muharemovic were battling for position.

«If you played the game, you would understand there's scenarios that you simply can't avoid and it has to be