Why was Folarin Balogun’s red card ban suspended ahead of the US-Belgium match?

Folarin Balogun will be available for the United States’ match 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Belgium after FIFA suspended the implementation of its red card ban for one match, although the broadcast itself has not been canceled.

The United States forward was expected to miss Monday’s knockout match in Seattle after being shown a straight red card in the 64th minute of the 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. Balogun, who had scored the opening goal, was dismissed following a VAR review for a challenge on Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic.

Under FIFA rules, a straight red card usually results in an automatic one-match suspension. However, FIFA’s disciplinary framework allows its judicial body to suspend the implementation of a sanction in certain cases. The ruling means that Balogun could face Belgium, but the sentence can still be applied if a similar crime is committed during the probation period.

READ ALSO: Rodri says Spain still has room to improve ahead of match against Portugal

The decision is a big boost for Mauricio Pochettino’s side ahead of one of the host country’s biggest matches. Balogun was one of the United States’ key attacking players at the tournament, scoring three goals, including the opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The case had initially left the United States preparing for a no-lead showdown with Belgium, as US Soccer had indicated that the standard one-match penalty for a straight red card could not be appealed unless FIFA increased the ban.

Balogun’s availability eases those concerns and restores a key part of Pochettino’s attack. The winner of the clash between the United States and Belgium will advance to the quarter-finals, keeping alive the host nation’s bid for the deepest World Cup run in modern times.

Published on July 5, 2026