FIFA released a statement on Sunday afternoon, confirming that the red card issued to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun had been overturned. Balogun will be eligible to play on Monday night against Belgium in the Round of 16.
"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.
Balogun had received a red card in the 64th minute of Wednesday night's match.
“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," FIFA stated.
© Phil Noble-Reuters via Imagn Images.
U.S. soccer is very "pleased" with the decision.
“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete [Monday],” said the statement. “Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans.”
President Trump reacts to the red card overturn
U.S. soccer fans had been "urging" President Trump to pressure FIFA to overturn the red card.
It doesn't seem like that happened, but President Trump is still quite pleased with the decision from FIFA, as well.
“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP," he posted.
President Trump will surely be watching Monday night's game between the U.S. and Belgium with a very close eye.
It'll kick off at 8 p.m. E.T. on FOX.
