Folarin Balogun is set to play for the U.S. team in their World Cup elimination game against Belgium. His availability follows FIFA’s decision to lift the suspension given after he received a red card during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The announcement came on Sunday and referenced article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
FIFA stated, “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. 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.”
Balogun has excelled in the tournament, scoring three goals in three games. He is the first American to achieve this feat since 1930. The incident leading to his red card involved a collision with Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic, where an accidental stomp on Muharemovic’s ankle resulted in the card.
Despite the initial decision, Balogun accepted the outcome respectfully and shook hands with referee Raphael Claus after the game. The U.S. Soccer’s statement welcomed FIFA’s decision to allow Balogun to compete, expressing readiness for the match against Belgium and appreciation for fan support.
The team was informed of the decision while traveling to practice, and Balogun was relieved to hear that the suspension had been lifted. The focus now shifts to the upcoming match in Seattle.