The decision followed an intervention from US President Donald Trump, prompting an angry response from Belgium’s football federation.
(Running Africa) — United States striker Folarin Balogun has been cleared to play in Monday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after FIFA suspended the one-match ban he received following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
FIFA confirmed on Sunday that Balogun’s suspension had been placed on a one-year probation under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, allowing the forward to feature in the crucial knockout encounter. The suspension will only be enforced if he commits a similar disciplinary offence during the probationary period.
The decision hands the United States a significant boost ahead of one of its biggest matches of the tournament, with Balogun emerging as one of the team’s key attacking threats during the World Cup.
According to a source familiar with the matter, the review followed a personal phone call from Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino requesting that the disciplinary decision be reconsidered.
Trump later welcomed the outcome in a post on his Truth Social platform, stating: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right.”
The ruling has drawn criticism from the Royal Belgian Football Association, which argued that the decision contradicts the tournament’s disciplinary regulations. The federation said it is exploring potential legal options to challenge the suspension’s reversal.
Balogun has been among the standout performers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring three goals while registering a goal contribution in every match he has played. His return strengthens the United States’ attacking options as the team looks to overcome Belgium and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
The controversy surrounding the disciplinary decision is expected to remain a major talking point as the knockout stage intensifies, with FIFA’s interpretation of its disciplinary code now facing increased scrutiny ahead of one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
