Folarin Balogun has been cleared to play in the United States men's national team's crucial Round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium after FIFA unexpectedly lifted his red card suspension.
The decision, announced via social media on Sunday morning, came as a surprise to players and fans alike, just hours before the team's final training session ahead of Monday's highly anticipated game at the University of Washington.
"I had no clue. We just found out this morning," said defender Alex Freeman. "For us, we just got the information and now we're ready."
Teammate Chris Richards admitted the team's initial reaction was disbelief. "With AI and with this and that, there can be a few question marks," Richards said with a grin. "Ultimately, we found out through social media. It took about 10 minutes to confirm it. We were so happy."
When asked about the atmosphere on the team bus after the news was confirmed by U.S. Soccer, Richards responded with a single word: "LIT."
Captain Christian Pulisic noted Balogun's reaction upon hearing the news. "I just saw a big smile on his face," Pulisic said. "I got to see him and dab him up after that. Knowing that we're going to have him around tomorrow helps so much and gives us a big boost."
The news quickly spread beyond the team, igniting a wave of reactions from prominent athletes, celebrities, and public figures across the United States. NFL legends Tom Brady, J.J. Watt, and Patrick Mahomes, along with MLB great CC Sabathia, NBA star Josh Hart, and sports broadcasters like Kay Adams and Pat McAfee, were among those who took to social media to express their approval.
Even major sports organizations, including the Seattle Mariners, and entities like Merriam-Webster joined the public conversation. The widespread reaction highlighted a rare moment where national attention converged on a single soccer development, with many likening Balogun's return to a pre-game victory.
Balogun had been suspended following a red card in a previous match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. FIFA's decision to place the suspension on a one-year probationary period allows the key striker to participate in the vital knockout stage game against Belgium, significantly bolstering the USMNT's chances.