FIFA Suspends Balogun Red-Card Ban for U.S. World Cup Match vs Belgium

FIFA suspended the one-game red-card ban on United States striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to play in Monday's World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium. The governing body announced Sunday that the suspension would remain on hold for a probationary period of one year. If Balogun commits another similar infringement during that period, the original sanction will be enforced.

Balogun received the red card in the second half of the United States' 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina on July 1 after his foot made contact with an opposing player. The referee ejected him from the field, triggering an automatic one-game suspension under FIFA rules. FIFA initially stated the referee's decision was final and could not be appealed.

President Donald Trump posted on social media that FIFA had done what was right by reversing a great injustice. U.S. Soccer said it accepted and was pleased with FIFA's decision. The Royal Belgian Football Association stated it is astonished by FIFA's decision to declare suspended United States player Folarin Balogun eligible to play.

Belgian officials said the move contradicts the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which automatically imposes a one-match suspension after any red card. The association added it is examining all available options to protect fair play. The United States and Belgium are scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m.

ET on Monday at Seattle Stadium.