Folarin Balogun Cleared to Play Against Belgium

U.S. soccer player Folarin Balogun can participate in the upcoming match against Belgium, as FIFA has announced the suspension of his red card will not be enforced.

During a game against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, Balogun was sent off, leading to a one-match ban. However, on Sunday, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee reversed this decision.

“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,” stated a FIFA article.

President Donald Trump commented on the situation via a post on Truth Social, expressing his appreciation for FIFA’s action.

“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” the President wrote.

Even though Balogun was ejected, the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) triumphed over Bosnia and Herzegovina with a score of 2-0, eliminating the European squad from the World Cup.

On Monday, the U.S. faces Belgium in a critical Round of 16 match, where the stakes are high: the winner moves on to the Round of 8, while the loser is knocked out of the tournament.

“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow. 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,” U.S. Soccer noted in a statement.