Folarin Balogun has been included in the U.S. men's national team's starting lineup against Belgium, a day after a red card incident that had caused controversy. The Royal Belgian Football Association had previously stated its objection to Balogun's eligibility, indicating it would contest the player's inclusion if he was listed on the referee's team sheet and leaving open all further options. This statement suggested a potential appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
However, following FIFA's reversal of the initial decision, any subsequent court ruling would likely be symbolic, as the quarterfinal match is scheduled for Friday in Los Angeles. The timeline appears too short for a legal process or a game replay. Balogun's presence in the lineup is expected to continue the discussion surrounding the incident.
The U.S. men's national team lineup, managed by Mauricio Pochettino, remains unchanged from their previous matches against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Paraguay. In contrast, Belgium's lineup, under Rudi Garcia, features notable absences with Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku on the bench. Nicholas Raskin and Dodi Lukebakio are starting in their place. Both De Bruyne and Doku were substituted in the second half of Belgium's Round of 32 victory over Senegal, a change that had a positive impact on the team's performance.