The United States men’s national team has received a major boost ahead of its FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after striker Folarin Balogun was cleared to play.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee overturned Balogun’s automatic one-match suspension, making him eligible for Monday’s knockout fixture and handing the Americans a significant lift ahead of the crucial encounter.
The 25-year-old had been shown a straight red card during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1 after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review. Balogun was dismissed in the 64th minute for a challenge on Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic, with the referee ruling the tackle as serious foul play.
U.S. Soccer immediately appealed the decision, arguing that the contact was accidental and did not warrant a red card or a suspension that would rule the striker out of a decisive World Cup match.
Following an expedited review of the incident, FIFA’s disciplinary panel upheld the appeal and rescinded the suspension, concluding that the punishment was excessive.
The decision comes as a huge relief for the U.S. coaching staff, with Balogun playing a key role in the team’s attacking play throughout the tournament. His availability preserves the Americans’ strongest attacking lineup for the high-stakes encounter against Belgium.
With the suspension lifted, the United States will head into Monday’s Round of 16 showdown with its leading striker available as it seeks a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
