USMNT striker Folarin Balogun is eligible to play in the team's World Cup last-16 tie against Belgium after FIFA suspended his one-game red card ban. The decision allows the forward to rejoin the squad for a crucial knockout stage match.
Balogun received a red card in the 64th minute of the United States' group stage match against Bosnia. The incident occurred during a challenge for a loose ball, where Balogun's boot landed on the ankle of Bosnia's Muharemovic. The referee, Raphael Claus, issued the red card after a review by the video assistant referee (VAR).
Under FIFA regulations, a red card automatically results in a suspension for the subsequent match. However, the governing body has the discretion to impose additional disciplinary measures or suspend bans in certain circumstances. This leniency has been seen before; for example, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo had a three-match ban for a red card during World Cup qualifiers suspended for a year, allowing him to play in his country's opening World Cup matches.
Balogun has been a significant player for the USMNT during the tournament, having scored two goals. He opened the scoring against Paraguay in their 4-1 opening win and also scored against Bosnia before his dismissal. His availability for the match against Belgium is considered a significant boost for the team.
The decision to review and suspend the ban has drawn attention, with some US political figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, having previously called for a review of the red card incident. Rubio had stated that the decision "screwed" the team and that there should be an appeal process, though he acknowledged it might be too late at the time.