The U.S. men’s soccer team will have star striker Folarin Balogun available for their Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday (July 6) in Seattle. FIFA’s disciplinary committee has suspended his one-match ban, placing him on a one-year probationary period instead. Balogun received a red card during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after a collision with defender Tarik Muharemovic. A video assistant referee (VAR) review led to the controversial decision.
According to amNewYork, FIFA cited Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, which allows for the suspension of a disciplinary measure under a probationary period. If Balogun commits another similar offense during this period, the suspension will be enforced along with any additional sanctions.
Balogun’s availability is crucial for the U.S. team, as he has scored three goals in the tournament, becoming the first U.S. player since Landon Donovan in 2010 to achieve this feat. His performance has been instrumental in the team’s success, including their first knockout-stage win since 2002.
U.S. Soccer expressed their satisfaction with the decision, stating, “We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow.” The team is now focused on their match against Belgium, which will be a significant challenge, as reported by Fox Sports.
Belgium, though not as formidable as in previous years, remains a tough opponent. They recently overcame a 2-0 deficit to defeat Senegal in the Round of 32. The U.S. team aims to advance to the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in over two decades.
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