USA Star Folarin Balogun Available For World Cup Match vs. Belgium After Major FIFA Decision

Folarin Balogun received some good news on Sunday, July 5, ahead of the United States Men’s National Team’s World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium.

Balogun was set to serve a one-game suspension after he received a straight red card during the team’s game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, July 1. But FIFA made the decision to rescind the red card.

“By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one [1] year,” a statement on FIFA’s website read.

U.S. Soccer also released a statement in reaction to the news.

“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow,” they said. “Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans.”

Balogun spoke with reporters ahead of the game before the suspension was lifted regarding the suspension.

“It’s been a roller coaster. There’s been lots of different emotions,” Balogun said. “I’ve been upset. I’ve been happy. It’s been surreal, to be honest. But for me, I think it was just important to stay calm. I never want to react out of anger and out of emotion. There’s still lots of people we’re inspiring, little kids, boys and girls who are watching, and we have to show them the correct way to handle things even when you think it’s unjust.

“So I felt I did that. And as I said, I’m happy with the support, not just I’m receiving, but the team. And I think we’re all looking forward to seeing what we can do against Belgium.”

A win over Belgium will earn the United States a spot in the quarterfinals, which would mark its first time since 2002.