FIFA clears Balogun for USA’s Belgium tie, prompting fairness row

Folarin Balogun is eligible to play for the USA against Belgium after FIFA suspended his one-match ban. The decision applies for a one-year probationary period, meaning the sanction can return if he commits a similar offence in that time.

Balogun had been sent off in the USA’s last-32 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina after a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic, and he was originally due to miss the next knockout match. FIFA’s move changes the immediate selection picture for the USA, with Balogun having scored three times at the tournament.

The ruling has quickly become a wider debate about consistency and competitive fairness. Belgium’s federation said it was surprised by the decision and is reviewing its options, while head coach Rudi Garcia questioned the precedent it sets for World Cup discipline.

The political dimension adds further sensitivity. Donald Trump welcomed FIFA’s action on social media, while the report says a White House call to FIFA about reviewing the red card was described by an anonymous Associated Press source; that specific influence claim still needs independent confirmation. Gary Neville also criticised the process, arguing that if such reviews are possible, the mechanism should be clear and available equally.