United States: Folarin Balogun cleared to face Belgium

Sent off against Bosnia and originally suspended for the round of 16, Folarin Balogun will ultimately be allowed to take part in the high-stakes clash between the United States and Belgium. FIFA has decided to suspend the execution of his sanction.

Although the US Soccer Federation did not file an appeal, believing it had no solid grounds to contest the punishment, FIFA has reconsidered the situation.

The world governing body upheld the red card given to the striker but converted his one-match suspension into a suspended sanction, in accordance with Article 27 of its disciplinary code. The result: Balogun is cleared to play against Belgium in the round of 16.

A major boost for the United States

This decision comes as fantastic news for the American squad, which will now be able to count on its striker for this crucial encounter.

A few days earlier, Folarin Balogun himself admitted he expected to miss this match: “I have to accept it,” he said in Seattle.

This kind of decision is not unprecedented. Before the tournament, FIFA had already granted a suspended ban to Cristiano Ronaldo, allowing him to play Portugal’s opening matches despite a disciplinary sanction.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.