U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun can play vs. Belgium, red card ban suspended

Digital Editor

FIFA’s disciplinary committee has suspended a red card issued against U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, clearing his way to play against Belgium Monday.

The committee issued an update on Sunday on the status of the 25-year-old New York-born attacker, who has three goals for the U.S. already in the World Cup.

“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,” the red card suspension reads in part.

Balogun was shown a controversial red card during in the 65th minute of the World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina for “serious foul play.”

Balogun’s cleat landed on the back of defender Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle as both players came down to the turf.

The red card triggered an automatic one-game suspension, initially nixing him from the round of 16 game against Belgium.

The U.S. Soccer Federation had no recourse to appeal the initial red card under FIFA rules, but soccer’s governing body made a decision to allow Balogun to play in the next match.

U.S. Soccer also released a statement in wake of the decision, saying they’re satisfied with the outcome.

“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow,” the statement reads in part. “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.”

President Donald Trump also applauded FIFA’s decision.

“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he said via a post on Truth Social.

The U.S. is seeking its first World Cup quarter-final appearance since 2002.