Folarin Balogun will start for the United States in their World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium after FIFA lifted his red card suspension. The decision by FIFA's disciplinary committee came after Balogun received a red card for stepping on an opponent's ankle during the Americans' 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina last Wednesday, which triggered an automatic one-game ban.
The lifting of the suspension has ignited significant controversy within the sport. Reports indicate the decision followed a phone call from U.S. President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The European governing body, UEFA, described the ruling as "unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable."
Belgium's attempt to have the suspension reinstated was rejected by FIFA's appeals committee, which stated the Belgian federation lacked the standing to make such a request. During the pregame march to Lumen Field, some Belgium fans chanted "FIFA Mafia."
Infantino has stated he did not directly influence the disciplinary committee's decision. The committee also fined Balogun $40,000, a penalty that the U.S. Soccer Federation can cover.
Balogun has scored three goals for the U.S. in the tournament. The United States has not won consecutive knockout-stage games in the World Cup. Belgium previously eliminated the Americans in the 2014 round of 16. The winner of the U.S.-Belgium match will advance to face Spain on Friday in Inglewood, California, for a spot in the semifinals. The U.S. last reached the quarterfinals in 2002 and made it to the semifinals of the inaugural World Cup in 1930.