FIFA has announced that Folarin Balogun, a US national team striker, will be available for the co-hosts in their round-of-16 match at the ongoing 2026 World Cup.
According to a statement by FIFA on Sunday, its disciplinary committee invoked Article 27 FDC to allow the striker, who has scored three goals, to face Belgium on Monday.
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the round-of-32 match between the US and Bosnia & Herzegovina for a dangerous foul, a punishment that carries an automatic suspension. Mauricio Pochettino’s team eventually won 2-0, but the impending unavailability of Balogun soured the victory.
However, FIFA, through its disciplinary committee, has handed the co-hosts a reprieve following reported calls for intervention, suspending Balogun’s ban for one year.
“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,” FIFA’s statement reads.
US President Donald Trump thanked FIFA for reversing Balogun’s red card on Truth Social and labelled the decision an injustice.
Balogun, with three goals in three matches, has a goal contribution per match for the USA in the ongoing World Cup, and his availability would boost the Stars and Stripes’ chances against a rejuvenated Belgium.
