It was a night of mixed fortunes for Monaco's international players. While Maghnes Akliouche's France had already booked their place in the Round of 16 after a 3-0 victory over Sweden the previous day, Folarin Balogun's United States, along with Lamine Camara and Krépin Diatta's Senegal, were aiming to do the same. The hosts achieved their objective, but the Lions of Teranga were left heartbroken after a dramatic encounter.
Balogun makes it three to set the USA on their way
First, the spotlight falls on Team USA and the Monaco forward, who was once again named in the starting line-up against Bosnia and Herzegovina after an impressive group stage in which he scored twice. Full of confidence since the start of the year, Balogun thought he had opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a fine left-footed finish, only for the goal to be ruled out. He would not have to wait long to make his mark, however, as the American No. 20 found the net just before half-time with a powerful strike through the middle to beat the goalkeeper (1-0, 45').
USA progress with a solid display
Balogun's third goal of the tournament once again proved decisive in breaking the deadlock. However, he was sent off just after the hour mark for an accidental studs-up challenge (64'). It ultimately had no impact on the result, as Malik Tillman wrapped up the victory with a direct free-kick in the closing stages (2-0, 82'). The United States therefore secured a 2-0 win and will face Belgium in the Round of 16 on Monday night into Tuesday morning (2:00 a.m.).
Heartbreak for Camara and Diatta's Senegal
Belgium, meanwhile, had earlier ended the hopes of the reigning African champions. Senegal appeared to be cruising after goals from Habib Diarra (1-0, 24') and Ismaïla Sarr (2-0, 51'), but were caught out on the brink of stoppage time as Romelu Lukaku pulled one back (2-1, 86') before Youri Tielemans levelled just three minutes later (2-2, 89').
The match therefore went to extra time, where the outcome remained in the balance until Belgium were awarded a penalty deep into added time. Former Monaco midfielder Youri Tielemans converted from the spot in the 125th minute to seal a 3-2 victory. It was a cruel ending for Lamine Camara, who came on at the hour mark, and Krépin Diatta, who started the match, as Senegal bowed out of the FIFA World Cup in the Round of 32.
Photo : Icon Sport
