Belgium has made an official move against the U.S. before kickoff in the Round of 16 game on Monday evening.
The U.S. are getting star striker Folarin Balogun back for the Round of 16 on Monday evening. Balogun had been hit with a red card in the Round of 32 win over Bosnia. The Americans were set to lose their top goal scorer for the Round of 16 match against Belgium.
However, on Sunday morning, FIFA suspended Balogun's red card, allowing him to play on Monday night.
"USA striker Folarin Balogun will be available to play in the co-host’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday at Seattle Stadium. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee issued an update on Sunday on the status of the 25-year-old New York-born attacker, who has three goals for the Stars & Stripes at these global finals," FIFA announced.
The decision is believed to be final.
“By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year.”
© Phil Noble-Reuters via Imagn Images.
Belgium, though, is trying to make moves on its own.
The European soccer power is officially challenging FIFA's decision, filing a formal appeal on Monday morning.
Belgium makes move against U.S. before kickoff
The Belgian soccer federation is demanding answers from FIFA, filing an official appeal and waiting for information.
“FIFA’s decision or any explanation regarding this matter. In these circumstances, it has no choice but to challenge the player’s eligibility for the upcoming match," Belgium says.
Kickoff on Monday evening is set for 8 p.m. E.T.
The Round of 16 game will be airing live on FOX.
