Folarin Balogun available for USA’s World Cup clash against Belgium
The United States have been handed a major boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 showdown against Belgium after striker Folarin Balogun was cleared to play following a FIFA disciplinary ruling.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee confirmed on Sunday that the automatic one-match suspension triggered by Balogun's red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina has been suspended, allowing the forward to remain available for selection.
The decision means one of the tournament's most in-form American players will be eligible as Mauricio Pochettino's side continue their bid to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for only the second time in history.
FIFA suspends automatic ban
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute during the United States' 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after receiving a straight red card. Despite being reduced to ten men, the Americans comfortably saw out the victory to secure their place in the knockout stage.
Following a review, FIFA announced that the disciplinary sanction would not immediately take effect.
In its official statement, the governing body said:
"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."
As a result, the striker will be available for Monday's crucial encounter against Belgium.
Balogun has been key for the USA
Balogun has emerged as one of the standout performers for the United States during the tournament. The 25-year-old has already scored three goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, playing a central role in helping the co-hosts reach the knockout rounds.
His pace, movement and finishing have added another dimension to Pochettino's attack, making his availability a significant boost ahead of facing one of Europe's strongest sides.
Belgium challenge awaits
The United States now turn their attention to Belgium in what promises to be one of the most intriguing Round of 16 fixtures.
The match also revives memories of the teams' famous meeting at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, when Belgium edged the Americans 2-1 after extra time despite an unforgettable performance from goalkeeper Tim Howard, who produced a then-World Cup record 16 saves.
This time, the United States will hope Balogun can provide the decisive edge as they chase a place in the quarter-finals for the first time since the 2002 tournament in Korea and Japan.
With FIFA's ruling now confirmed, Pochettino has one of his biggest attacking weapons back at exactly the right moment.
SportsLigue
