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Belgium coach Rudi Garcia reacts to Balogun eligibility news

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 9:59 PM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia reacts to Balogun eligibility news
Summary

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia expressed disbelief upon learning that Folarin Balogun, the suspended U.S. striker, was cleared to participate in the round of 16 match. Garcia initially suspected the news might be a prank. The development could significantly impact Belgium's strategy as they navigate the knockout stage of the tournament.

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Key Details
  • •Rudi Garcia was surprised by the news about Balogun's eligibility.
  • •Balogun had been suspended prior to the announcement.
  • •Belgium is set to compete in the round of 16 match.
Latest Updates
  • 6:05 AMYahoo Sports — ‘I didn’t know that in FIFA, July 5th is April Fools’ Day’ – Belgium boss Rudi Garcia responds to Folarin Balogun’s red card being suspended
  • 5:49 AMYahoo Sports — "This is Where it Becomes Dangerous": FIFA's Decision on Folarin Balogun Draws Criticism From Ex-Pro
  • 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Belgian coach Rudi Garcia criticizes FIFA’s Balogun red card ban reversal: ‘It’s April Fools’
  • 10:44 PMESPN — Belgium furious at Balogun U-turn: It's April Fool...
What they're saying
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After FIFA announced that U.S. national team forward Folarin Balogun would play in the Round of 16 after his one-game red-card ban was suspended, their opponent did not take the news well. “The Belgian federation isn’t just defending itself or the national team; it’s defending football in general — its integrity and its ethics,” Belgium…

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When FIFA announced its decision to rescind USMNT star forward Folarin Balogun’s one-game suspension, Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia thought it might be April Fool’s Day. The shock decision has been the singular point of discussion ahead of the USMNT-Belgium round of 16 clash on Monday.

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Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia has reacted with disbelief after FIFA dramatically suspended the red card handed to Folarin Balogun in the round of 32.The United States striker is clear to face the Red...

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