FIFA reversed a controversial red card issued to U.S. Men’s National Team striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to play Monday night in the Round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium.
The decision carries massive implications for the USMNT’s quarterfinal hopes.
Balogun, who plays club soccer for Arsenal in the English Premier League, scored the game-winning goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this week. But late in the match, he was shown a straight red card on a highly controversial play in which he inadvertently stepped on a Bosnian player’s ankle.
Brazilian referee Rafael Claus conducted a lengthy VAR review of the play — which didn’t even draw a yellow card during live action. Announcers debated whether the incident was serious enough to review at all.
Claus emerged from the VAR viewing area and shocked thousands in attendance — plus over 30 million watching from home — by showing Balogun a straight red card.
Under FIFA rules, a red card disqualifies a player from the remainder of the current match and the next game.
The U.S. men hung on for a 2-0 win behind a shutout defensive performance and an expertly struck free kick from Malik Tillman.
Before fans were even done singing Country Roads — the custom for U.S. supporters after World Cup matches — concern about Balogun’s absence began dominating the conversation.
As of Sunday, that concern is gone.
FIFA cited Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allows the judicial body to “fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure.”
Balogun will be placed on a one-year probationary period. If he commits a similar foul during that time, the suspension will be revoked and the sanction enforced, according to the article.
The U.S. faces Belgium Monday night with its star striker back in the lineup.
Folarin Balogun received a RED card for this accidental challenge on a Bosnian defender.
He will now MISS the United States round of 16 match against Belgium if they hold on to win. pic.twitter.com/dt4v3qFGVg
— Banter FC (@TheFCBanter) July 2, 2026
Breaking: Folarin Balogun will be available to play in USA's Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday, FIFA announced.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has suspended the red card issued to the USA striker during their Round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. pic.twitter.com/Vei4RKDKfP
— ESPN (@espn) July 5, 2026
