FIFA postpones U.S. striker Balogun's red-card suspension ahead of Belgium match
FIFA's Disciplinary Committee placed a one-game suspension on U.S. forward Folarin Balogen on a one-year probationary basis, allowing him to play in the World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium.
FIFA announced on Sunday that it would suspend the enforcement of a one-game red-card ban imposed on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, placing the sanction on a one-year probationary period. The decision enables Balogun to be eligible for the United States' round-of-16 match against Belgium in Seattle.
The disciplinary committee gave no public explanation for the postponement, stating that the suspension will be activated if Balogun commits another similar infringement. The move follows a phone conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino about the original ruling.
Balogun received the red card during the United States' 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina after stepping on a defender's ankle. A video-assistant referee reviewed slow-motion footage and recommended the dismissal, which U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino described as an accidental, normal action.
U.S. Soccer said it would accept FIFA's decision and expressed satisfaction that Balogun will be available for the upcoming match. The Royal Belgian Football Federation said it was surprised by the postponement and indicated it would explore possible recourse under FIFA regulations.
Belgian head coach Rudi Garcia criticized the decision as unprecedented and said it left his team with limited time to adjust. Balogun, who remained calm after the incident, told reporters he accepted the referee’s call and emphasized the importance of setting a positive example for young fans.
U.S. winger Christian Pulisic welcomed the outcome, describing the red card as harsh and praising Balogun’s attitude. The United States now seeks a win that would advance the team to the quarterfinals, matching its deepest modern-era World Cup run.