FIFA suspends Balogun's ban, allowing play against Belgium

Sky Sports Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 8:26 PM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

FIFA suspends Balogun's ban, allowing play against Belgium

Summary

FIFA has allowed banned USA striker Folarin Balogun to participate in the World Cup last-16 match against Belgium, following a red card suspension. The suspension stems from Balogun's ejection during a prior game against Bosnia-Herzegovina. The decision has drawn mixed reactions, eliciting praise from President Donald Trump while Belgian officials express astonishment and consider potential responses. Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia criticized FIFA's action as unprecedented, emphasizing concerns over fairness in the tournament. USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino defended Balogun, arguing that fairness should not implicate his team as culprits in the situation.

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Key Details

•Folarin Balogun's ban has been suspended for the World Cup match.
•Balogun received a red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
•The Belgian FA is investigating options in response to FIFA's decision.
•Trump praised FIFA's move as correcting an injustice.
•Belgium's coach Garcia highlighted concerns over tournament fairness.

What they're saying

"
FIFA has stepped in to make banned USA striker Folarin Balogun available for the World Cup last-16 tie with Belgium - a move praised by US President Donald Trump but slammed by Gary Neville.
— Sky Sports Football

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