Controversy and Chaos: Red Cards, Costly Tickets & More

The 2026 World Cup has been as controversial as it has been entertaining:
USMNT Red Card Drama: Folarin Balogun was shown a straight red card in USA's 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina despite appearing to accidentally catch his opponent . Former NFL star Jason Kelce slammed the decision, saying: "That foul looked incidental... shouldn't a Red Card be given if there is either intention to foul?" . Balogun will now miss the Belgium clash .
Haaland Hits Back at Critics: Erling Haaland responded to "anti-fans" mocking his goal-scoring style with laughter . After scoring a tap-in winner against Ivory Coast, critics joked "You don't see him for 90 minutes, then suddenly he appears... with the easiest tap-in ever" . Haaland simply shared the post with laughing emojis - a classic response .
Ticket Price Outrage: Fans are furious after **World Cup final tickets were listed for as much as $2.3 million** on FIFA's resale platform, while train fares in New Jersey jumped from $13 to nearly $100 during tournament periods .
Political Controversy: The tournament has faced criticism over Iran's travel restrictions and visa complications, with the Iranian coach calling his team "the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup" .
FIFA President Under Fire: Gianni Infantino's close relationship with Donald Trump has drawn scrutiny, with critics accusing FIFA of abandoning political neutrality