In a dramatic twist global soccer governing body FIFA has officially suspended the one-match ban handed to United States forward Folarin Balogun.
The controversial decision clears the way for the tournament co-hosts’ leading striker to start in tomorrow’s Round of 16 clash against Belgium at Seattle Stadium.
Balogun was staring down an automatic one-game suspension after receiving a highly controversial straight red card in the 64th minute of the USA’s 2–0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Thursday.
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Brazilian referee Raphael Claus had initially let play continue after Balogun inadvertently stepped on the ankle of Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic while battling for a loose ball.
However, following a VAR intervention that displayed the challenge in slow motion, Claus brandished a straight red card for serious foul play.
While automated red-card suspensions are non-appealable under FIFA regulations, the governing body took the rare step to intervene directly on Sunday evening
“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,” FIFA announced in a formal statement.
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Under the probationary terms, if Balogun commits an infringement of a similar nature over the next 12 months, the suspension will be immediately reinstated alongside any new penalties.
The reprieve marks an immense relief for U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino, who heavily criticized the officiating after Thursday’s match, insisting there was never an intention to step on the player.
U.S. Soccer expressed their gratitude shortly after the squad was informed of the news during a team meeting:
“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow. Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle.”
On his part US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to thank the federation, writing: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice.”
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