FIFA allows Folarin Balogun to play for USMNT after suspension ruling
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 9:01 PM
Last updated Jul 5, 2026
FIFA has cleared Folarin Balogun to participate in the US men's national team match against Belgium on Monday night as part of the Round of 16 in the World Cup. The decision follows a controversial red card received in the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun was sent off during the second half, prompting widespread criticism regarding the legitimacy of the ejection. FIFA's means of reinstating him employed a seldom-used disciplinary measure without a formal appeals process, drawing backlash from the Royal Belgium FA, which has expressed discontent over the ruling. Balogun's reinstatement has sparked discussions on FIFA's disciplinary procedures.
- •Balogun received a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- •FIFA suspended Balogun's suspension for one year.
- •The USMNT faces Belgium in the Round of 16 World Cup match.
- •The Royal Belgium FA is investigating the decision.
- •Critics argue the red card was unjustified.
- 9:01 PMYahoo Sports — FIFA's green light for Folarin Balogun to play for USMNT is the right decision made through the wrong process
"If FIFA had a proper appeals process for red-card suspensions, something in place in pretty much every soccer league you can name, the decision to rescind striker Folarin Balogun's suspension would be far less controversial. But they don't. So this is where we are.
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