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FIFA clears Balogun for USMNT knockout match against Belgium

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 1:30 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

FIFA clears Balogun for USMNT knockout match against Belgium

Summary

FIFA has cleared USMNT striker Folarin Balogun to play in the knockout match against Belgium following a controversial red card. The decision, which comes after interventions reportedly made by Donald Trump, has rewritten Balogun's one-match suspension into a one-year probationary period. The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed surprise at FIFA’s reversal, asserting it clashes with the governing body's disciplinary regulations. Balogun received the red card during a previous match against Bosnia and Herzegovina but will now be eligible to participate in the Round of 16 on July 6 in Seattle.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Folarin Balogun was initially suspended after a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
•The Royal Belgian Football Association is reviewing options following FIFA's decision.
•Donald Trump reportedly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to reconsider the suspension.
•Balogun will be available to play in the Round of 16 on July 6.

Latest Updates

6:12 PMYahoo Sports — Balogun red card controversy: FIFA rejects Belgium’s appeal ahead of US match
1:30 AMYahoo Sports — Donald Trump Hails FIFA For USMNT Red Card U-Turn

What they're saying

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Donald Trump celebrated FIFA’s decision to clear USMNT star Folarin Balogun for the World Cup knockout match against Belgium, calling The Donald Trump Hails FIFA For USMNT Red Card U-Turn first appeared on The Blast
— Yahoo Sports