Entertainment
USA vs Belgium: Balogun cleared to play after red card overturned
United States forward Folarin Balogun is reportedly available for Monday’s FIFA World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium after his one-match suspension was lifted.
The Monaco striker had been expected to miss the knockout tie after receiving a straight red card during the USA’s victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, fresh reports indicate he has been cleared to feature.
Neither FIFA nor the U.S. Soccer Federation has officially confirmed the decision.
Balogun set for knockout return
Balogun was initially handed a mandatory one-match suspension after being sent off for a challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic.
Under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, straight red cards normally result in an automatic suspension. However, Article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code allows the governing body to suspend or reduce disciplinary sanctions in certain circumstances.
According to reports, FIFA has exercised that discretion, making the 25-year-old available for the last-16 encounter.
His return would provide a significant boost for Mauricio Pochettino’s side as they prepare to face Belgium, with the winners advancing to a quarter-final against either Portugal or Spain.
Balogun has been one of the United States’ key attacking players during the tournament and scored before being dismissed in the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Forward questioned red card
Speaking before reports of his availability emerged, Balogun admitted he was disappointed by the decision to send him off, arguing that the incident was accidental.
“If you’ve played the game, you would understand there are scenarios that you simply can’t avoid… it has to be taken into context when it’s being reviewed,” he said.
The striker added:
“I felt it wasn’t on this occasion, but I think, as you all saw, if there’s nowhere else to put your leg, it’s going to be unavoidable.”
Balogun also insisted a caution would have been a fairer punishment.
“I think a yellow card would have been fair, and it’s something that’s happened, so we have to move forward, and I have to accept it.”
Reflecting on the aftermath of the incident, he said:
The United States will hope to have Balogun available when they face Belgium as they seek a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
