FIFA allows Folarin Balogun to play for USMNT against Belgium
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 7:32 PM
Last updated Jul 5, 2026
FIFA reversed Folarin Balogun's one-game suspension just before the USMNT's Round of 16 clash with Belgium. Balogun, the team's leading scorer, was initially banned for a red card received against Bosnia and Herzegovina but is now placed on probation for one year. The US Soccer Federation welcomed the decision, while Belgium criticized FIFA's handling, seeking additional options to address the ruling. As the teams prepare, USMNT players expressed readiness to adapt to the development shortly before kickoff.
- •FIFA rescinded Folarin Balogun's suspension before the match
- •Balogun is placed on one-year probation
- •US Soccer Federation supports FIFA's reversal
- •Belgium objects to FIFA's decision, investigating options
- •Match scheduled for Monday against Belgium in World Cup
- 7:32 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup 2026: USMNT reacts after FIFA's stunning Folarin Balogun reversal — 'A lot of us thought it was AI'
"FIFA’s last-minute decision cleared the team's leading scorer to face Belgium, forcing the U.S. to quickly pivot after preparing to play without him.
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