FIFA has suspended the one-game ban imposed on United States striker Folarin Balogun, making him available for his team’s World Cup last-16 match against Belgium.
The 25-year-old received a straight red card for a foul during the Americans’ 2-0 round-of-32 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. FIFA cited its disciplinary code to suspend the automatic suspension for a one-year probationary period.
“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,” the world governing body said in a statement. Any similar infringement during that time would revoke the suspension.
The decision has drawn criticism from Belgium, whose football association expressed astonishment and said it is exploring options. US captain Christian Pulisic welcomed the news, saying Balogun was “super happy” and describing the original red card as “harsh.”
Balogun has been a key performer for the co-hosts, scoring three goals at the tournament. The ruling has sparked debate over consistency in FIFA’s disciplinary decisions.
