Former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun was sent off during the United States’ win over Bosna & Herzegovina in the World Cup. The 24-year-old has earlier opened the scoring for his country as they claimed a 2-0 win in San Francisco.
Balogun thought he had opened the scoring in the 31st minute for the USA, slotting home a left-footed effort and instantly and went on to perform “The Silencer” celebration, which has been made famous by NBA icon LeBron James.
The routine includes a distinctive sequence of stomping, chest-tapping, and roaring, but the goal went on to be ruled out for offside.
Undaunted, Balogun scored again just14 minutes later, and on this occasion there was no offside flag to ruin the occasion.
Balogun once more unleashed “The Silencer” celebration, and his determination was rewarded not only on the pitch, but across social media as well.
James himself took to Twitter to recognise Balogun’s celebration, posting with several emojis: “LFG! ! ! ! ! ! THE [Silencer] HAS [landed] at the World Cup! Helluva goal there Young [king]! [salute]. GO [USA].”
The NBA icon famously unveiled “The Silencer” in 2013 following a decisive three-pointer that sealed victory for the Miami Heat against the Boston Celtics, and has subsequently deployed it during countless high-stakes moments throughout his illustrious career.
However, midway through the second half, Balogun was shown a red card for a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic.
The referee did not initially issue a red card to the former Arsenal striker, but was instructed to look at the pitchside monitor where the decision was reversed and Balogun’s match came to an early end.
As a result, Balogun will be expected to now serve a one-match suspension, which will see the striker miss the last-16 tie against Belgium, which will take place in Seattle.
Balogun’s next opportunity to feature at the World Cup, where he already has three goals to his name, would be in a potential quarter-final tie against either Spain, Austria, Portugal or Croatia.