FIFA rescinds Balogun red card, US striker eligible for Round of 16 vs Belgium

FIFA has suspended the one-game red card ban on USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to play in Monday's Round of 16 match against Belgium. The decision, announced Sunday, reverses the automatic suspension he received for a red card in the previous match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. DraftKings called it an "unprecedented decision" by football's world governing body.

DraftKingsFolarin Balogun cleared for USA vs. Belgium on Monday 7/6/26

"FIFA suspended the red card sanction for a probationary period of one year"

Fox NewsUSA World Cup star Folarin Balogun available to play vs Belgium in stunning twist

The red card was issued in the last-32 match, and FIFA's disciplinary committee cited an article of the FIFA code to lift the ban, according to The Guardian. Balogun will now be available for the crucial knockout clash.

The GuardianFolarin Balogun eligible to play for US v Belgium as Fifa rescinds suspension for red card

Balogun has been a constant threat for the US so far this tournament, scoring three goals in three starts, as reported by The Guardian. His presence gives the team a major attacking option against a strong Belgian side.

"The decision gives the US a huge boost as they attempt to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2002"

Without Balogun, US coach Mauricio Pochettino was scrambling to come up with other options in attack, The Guardian noted. Now, with the striker reinstated, the US can field its full-strength frontline as they aim to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time in 24 years.