FIFA has overturned the suspension of Team USA soccer player Folarin Balogun, allowing him to participate in an important match against Belgium. Despite FIFA’s decision, Belgium plans to appeal, leading to uncertainty ahead of the game.

Reports indicate that FIFA imposed suspensions on two key members of the U.S. Soccer Federation before the World Cup match against Belgium. The individuals affected were team manager Sam Zapatka and U.S. Soccer Federation Vice President of Security Frank Pannell, who were barred from the match. This incident followed the U.S. team’s 4-1 loss to Belgium, which marked the end of its 2026 World Cup campaign.

FIFA has not specified the reasons for the suspensions. Sources suggest these might relate to incidents during Team USA’s game against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, including potential breaches of match protocols. However, no physical altercations were reported.

Despite these events, the U.S. Soccer Federation clarified that the staff suspensions were unrelated to the appeal concerning Balogun’s red-card suspension. Belgium challenged FIFA’s decision to allow Balogun to play, but FIFA maintained its stance, enabling Balogun to take the field.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the red-card incident and mentioned discussing the matter with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Trump expressed his view that the play did not constitute a foul, describing it as two athletes colliding.

Following the U.S. defeat, Belgium advanced to the quarterfinals and is scheduled to face Spain in Los Angeles.