FIFA Clears Balogun to Face Belgium After Suspending World Cup Ban
FIFA has cleared United States striker Folarin Balogun to play in Monday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after suspending the one-match ban imposed following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun, who opened the scoring in the USA’s Round of 32 victory, was sent off later in the game, triggering an automatic suspension. However, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee reviewed the case and ruled that the implementation of the sanction would be suspended for a one-year probationary period under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
“In line with Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA said in a statement.
The decision means Balogun is eligible to feature against Belgium in Seattle. Under the ruling, the suspended sanction will only be enforced if the forward commits a similar disciplinary offence during the one-year probationary period.
The United States Soccer Federation welcomed the decision, saying it was pleased Balogun would be available for the knockout encounter.
“Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans,” the federation said.
The red card had sparked controversy after Video Assistant Referee officials advised Brazilian referee Raphael Claus to review the incident on the pitch side monitor before issuing the dismissal.
Reports also indicated that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had called for the red card to be rescinded.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised FIFA’s decision, writing on his Truth Social platform
“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” He Wrote
Balogun has scored three goals for the United States at the tournament and is expected to play a key role as the Americans seek a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
