Folarin Balogun was originally set to miss the U.S. Men’s National Team’s Round of 16 match against Belgium due to a red card issued in a previous game. However, FIFA ruled him eligible to play just a day before the match, igniting controversy. Many argued that Balogun should not have received the red card initially.

The decision was met with mixed reactions, as Belgium reacted strongly, yet Balogun participated regardless of the appeal. Despite his presence on the field, the U.S. suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Belgium, ending their World Cup journey.

“He came to talk to me. I really liked that. It is not his fault; he is not the one to blame, and that’s what I told him,” said Belgium’s manager Rudi Garcia.

Garcia appreciated Balogun approaching him after the match, acknowledging that Balogun was not at fault for the situation. The initial report by The Athletic highlighted that FIFA’s disciplinary code allows for the suspension of a disciplinary measure, which played a role in Balogun’s case.

According to the code, if the individual benefiting from a suspended sanction commits a similar offense within the probationary period, the suspension would be revoked. President Donald Trump had contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino, advocating for a review of the red card.

Trump expressed his belief that the incident was not a foul, describing it as two athletes colliding rather than an aggressive act. He conveyed his stance without pressuring FIFA for a specific decision, affirming his satisfaction with the committee’s ruling.

After the match, Belgium advanced to face Spain, while the U.S. will aim for a comeback in the 2032 World Cup.