Lionel Messi got a friendly whistle. Folarin Balogun did not and paid a massive price. The USMNT star forward received a red card Wednesday, which has been described as “insane” and “Why FIFA sucks” by fans — and those same people won’t want to see that Messi didn’t even get a card for an extremely similar play earlier in the tournament.

The Americans are seeing red over the most controversial and consequential red card so far in the World Cup. While the United States celebrated a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, fans and players were angry and frustrated by a second-half red card that sent off star striker Falorin Balogun.

Switzerland's Breel Embolo got a second yellow card for diving. If World Cup is rigged for Messi and Argentina, this call wasn't part of conspiracy.

Balogun received a straight red card during the USMNT's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina

The ongoing debate regarding preferential treatment for Lionel Messi during the FIFA World Cup has intensified with former FIFA referee Keith Hackett's recent comments. He argues that Messi's status may unfairly influence refereeing decisions.

Switzerland's Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation. The decision was taken after yet another VAR intervention in an Argentina match at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

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When England play Argentina at the World Cup, it tends to be a full-blooded contest. From the Hand of God to Beckham's red card, the fixture has never been far from controversy. As tends to be the case,