FIFA Rescinds Balogun’s Ban, Clears Striker For Belgium W/Cup Clash

United States striker Folarin Balogun will be available for Monday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after FIFA rescinded the one-match suspension imposed following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee said the decision was taken under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which empowers it to rescind red cards in certain circumstances.

FIFA said, “In line with article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” in a statement.

“If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.”

FIFA had previously invoked the same provision to clear Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo to feature in the opening matches of the World Cup after a red card he received against the Republic of Ireland.

Reacting to the decision, US Soccer welcomed the development, saying the team’s focus had now shifted entirely to the knockout clash against Belgium.

“We accept the decision of the disciplinary committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow,” US Soccer said in a statement.

“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.”

Balogun was sent off during the United States’ Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after an incident involving a Bosnia defender.

Although no foul was initially awarded, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) advised the referee to review the challenge after replays showed Balogun stepping on the defender’s ankle.

Following the pitch-side review, the referee issued a straight red card for violent conduct.

The decision drew widespread surprise from commentators, as well as the United States players and coaching staff, who maintained that the contact was accidental.

“For me? Never a red card,” United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino said after the match.

“Never an intention to step on the player. It was a normal action in football that happened by accident.”

At the time of the dismissal, FIFA and US Soccer officials had indicated that the automatic one-match suspension attached to the red card could not be appealed.

Speaking earlier in the week, Balogun described the experience of being sent off as “surreal” and reflected on his decision to remain composed despite believing the punishment was harsh.

“I never want to react out of anger and out of emotion,” Balogun said.

“There’s still lots of people we’re inspiring, little kids, boys and girls who are watching, and we have to show them the correct way to handle things, even when you think it’s unjust.”

Balogun’s reinstatement is a major boost for the United States as they prepare to face Belgium for a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.