Balogun cleared to play for United States in World Cup round of 16

Forward Folarin Balogen will be available for the United States in their World Cup round-of-16 clash with Belgium, after FIFA suspended the one-match ban that followed his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The striker was sent off in the second half of the 2-0 win over Bosnia, receiving a straight red for a foul on Tarik Muharemovic. FIFA’s disciplinary committee imposed a one-match suspension but placed it on a one-year probationary period, meaning the ban will only be enforced if Balogun commits a similar offence during that time.

US Soccer issued a statement saying it accepts the disciplinary committee’s decision and is pleased that Balogun is eligible to compete. The federation said its focus remains on the upcoming match in Seattle and on the support of its fans.

Sources indicated that the United States did not appeal the sanction, and that any external pressure, including from the White House, could not influence the independent disciplinary panel.

The United States, one of the tournament’s co-hosts, entered the knockout stage after victories over Paraguay, Australia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. A win over Belgium would advance them to the quarter-finals for only the second time in their history.