Is Folarin Balogun playing tonight? Latest World Cup suspension update before Belgium vs USMNT

Folarin Balogun is available for the United States’ World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium after FIFA suspended the automatic one-match ban that followed his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The decision was confirmed by FIFA on Sunday, ending days of uncertainty around the USMNT striker’s status. Balogun had been expected to miss the knockout clash after being sent off during the 2-0 win over Bosnia, but FIFA’s disciplinary bodies used Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code to defer the suspension for a one-year probationary period. As a result, the Monaco forward is eligible to play against Belgium and remains available for selection.

The ruling has sparked criticism from Belgian football officials and UEFA, making it one of the biggest talking points ahead of the knockout fixture.

Why FIFA cleared Folarin Balogun for the United States vs Belgium match?

The debate began after Balogun received a straight red card during the United States’ Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemović was reviewed by VAR before the referee showed the red card, which normally carries an automatic one-match suspension.

However, FIFA later announced that the suspension would not take immediate effect. Instead, the punishment was placed under a one-year probation period through Article 27 of the disciplinary code. The red card remains on Balogun’s record, but he does not have to serve the ban now unless there is another similar offence during that period. The decision came after reports that U.S. President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino and asked for a review of the case.

Infantino later stressed that FIFA’s independent judicial bodies made the final decision and that he was not involved in the disciplinary ruling itself.

Folarin Balogun gives USMNT major boost before Belgium showdown

Balogun’s availability is a significant lift for head coach Mauricio Pochettino and the United States attack. The striker has scored three goals during the tournament and has been one of the team’s most important players in the final third. While the United States welcomed the decision, Belgium strongly objected.

The Royal Belgian Football Association challenged Balogun’s eligibility, arguing that FIFA’s move contradicted the normal disciplinary process. On Monday, FIFA rejected Belgium’s challenge, stating that the federation did not have standing in the original disciplinary proceedings. That ruling effectively cleared the way for Balogun to feature in the match.

UEFA also criticised FIFA’s handling of the situation, calling the decision unprecedented and raising concerns about the integrity of the disciplinary process. Despite the controversy, FIFA’s ruling remains in place, meaning Balogun is eligible for selection against Belgium. For now, the latest update is that Folarin Balogun is available to play for the United States against Belgium, and his suspension will not be served before the World Cup knockout match.