Zlatan Ibrahimović has sided with the United States and Folarin Balogun after a controversial decision at the 2026 World Cup.
Balogun, the Monaco forward, was shown a red card during the knockout-stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina following a harsh challenge on Tarik Muharemović. However, the card was later overturned, meaning Balogun will be available for the United States’ Round of 16 match against Belgium.
The decision caused major controversy, with FIFA and Donald Trump drawing attention over the case. The Belgian Football Association also reacted, and now Ibrahimović has shared his view on the situation.
“I’m happy for the U.S. It was a different situation, but as Thierry Henry said, he should not have received a red card. The decision should have come much earlier. I’m happy for the U.S. because they are incredible, and Balogun is super incredible,” Ibrahimović said during a live broadcast.
His comments are unlikely to go down well among Bosnia and Herzegovina fans. Balogun’s red card came in the match against Bosnia, after a tackle on one of the country’s most popular players.
Ibrahimović has Bosnian roots, but he also built major popularity and wealth during his time playing in the United States. He is now working as a television analyst in the U.S., and his praise for the American team after their 2-0 win over Bosnia did not sit well with many Bosnian supporters.
After the match, Ibrahimović praised the U.S. for its mentality.
“This is why soccer is the greatest sport in the world. The U.S. had every reason to fall apart tonight, but instead they became even stronger. First, they had a goal ruled out. Then another goal was disallowed. They were also left with ten men after Balogun’s red card. Most teams would have lost control in that situation. You don’t win World Cup knockout games with talent alone. You win them with mentality. Tonight, the U.S. showed the mentality of champions,” Ibrahimović said.
He also criticized Bosnia’s response to the circumstances.
“Bosnia and Herzegovina had every opportunity to take advantage of the situation, but they looked shaken. Playing against ten men should have given them more confidence, but in the end, the Americans still looked like the team with the extra player,” he added.
