USMNT ends 24-year knockout drought: Tillman, Balogun lead red-card fightback
Malik Tillman and Folarin Balogun delivered standout performances as the USMNT overcame a red card to secure a historic 2-0 World Cup knockout win.
The USMNT ended a 24-year World Cup knockout drought with a 2-0 victory, turning a red-card scare into a statement of resilience. Young defender Malik Tillman anchored the backline, while striker Folarin Balogun provided the decisive goal, earning top post-match ratings. The win not only advances the Americans to the next round but also signals a generational shift for the national team.
The match marked the first knockout-stage triumph for the USMNT in a quarter-century, a drought that stretched back to 1994. Tillman’s composure under pressure and Balogun’s clinical finish underscored the talent emerging in Gregg Berhalter’s squad. Post-match assessments highlighted both players as standouts, with Balogun’s strike described as the defining moment of the game.
