Balogun on controversial red card: "It was surreal"

 Folarin Balogun spoke about his feelings regarding the controversial red card he received in the World Cup round of 16 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, in which he also scored a goal. In his speech at a press conference in Seattle on his 25th birthday, the striker said that what happened in the match against Bosnia was a surprise to him. "I was surprised. I was angry. I was happy. It was surreal, to be honest. But I think it was important to stay calm. I never want to react with anger or emotion. There are still many people we inspire, children who watch us, so we have to show them how to behave, even if you feel an injustice has happened to you," Balogun said. The player added that even though he believed the referee's decision was wrong, he still tried to shake his hand after the match to show that he respected his decisions. "I always try to shake the referee's hand after the match, and this match was no different. Even if you feel that you have been treated unfairly, it is not an excuse to be disrespectful towards someone," added the striker. The red card that Balogun received became the subject of wide discussion in the United States. There were many comments on social media regarding this decision, and even some famous personalities, such as American football players, spoke in defense of the footballer. The U.S. national team striker will not play in the World Cup quarterfinals against Belgium because his penalty is one game. --- ## Related Articles 1. [France Edges Paraguay to Reach World Cup Quarterfinals](https://pitchpulsemedia.com/en/news/france-edges-paraguay-to-reach-world-cup-quarterfinals) 2. [Canada Exits World Cup Despite Strong Performance Against Morocco](https://pitchpulsemedia.com/en/news/canada-exits-world-cup-despite-strong-performance-against-morocco)