FIFA has ruled that U.S. striker Folarin Balogun will be eligible to play in Monday night's Round of 16 game in Seattle. Belgium is absolutely furious.
Belgium released a statement in reaction to the stunning news on Sunday afternoon, making it clear that they very much disagreed with the ruling and will be pursuing ways to reverse it.
The country's federation said that it was “astonished” by the decision by FIFA, adding that it was in “direct contradiction” with the competition regulations in the World Cup.
“In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options," the Royal Belgian Football Association said.
© Phil Noble-Reuters via Imagn Images.
U.S. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, is fairly thrilled.
“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” U.S. President Donald Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social following the big news.
U.S. Soccer is quite happy, too
U.S. men's soccer star Christian Pulisic told reporters that he is elated by the decision, though he believes it's the right one.
“Obviously, for us it gives us a boost,” Pulisic told reporters at training, per The Athletic.
“I mean, if you look at the foul, it was just — it’s zero intent at all. I felt like there was much worse ones that went on at this tournament.
“Balo handled it so well, and I think the team handled it well. We weren’t here to complain or make some — like, you have to handle it in a good way, and, you know, good things happen to people like that. He was so positive and all for the team. It just feels right, I guess.”
U.S. and Belgium are scheduled to begin play at 8 p.m. E.T. on Monday.
