Folarin Balogun will be available to play for the U.S. in the upcoming World Cup elimination game against Belgium. FIFA has decided to revoke the one-game suspension originally handed down after Balogun received a red card during the round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In a statement released on Sunday morning, FIFA mentioned, “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 similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.”
Balogun has been a standout player for the U.S., scoring three goals in three games. He is the first American to achieve this feat in a World Cup since 1930.
The red card incident occurred when Balogun and Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic collided 16 minutes into the second half. Muharemovic’s right leg got trapped beneath Balogun’s right foot, causing Balogun to unintentionally step on his ankle, leading to the awkward twist.
Both players were injured, but referee Raphael Claus initially refrained from penalizing. It was only after reviewing the replay, as urged by the video assistant referee, that Claus issued the red card.
Post-match, Balogun amicably shook the referee’s hand. On Friday, he addressed the media, expressing respect for the red card decision.
U.S. Soccer also released a statement on Sunday, accepting the decision of the Disciplinary Committee. “We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow,” the statement read. “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.”
A U.S. Soccer spokesperson confirmed that the team received news of FIFA’s decision on Sunday morning. Balogun learned about the suspension being lifted during the team’s bus ride to training.