Belgium has slammed FIFA’s decision to clear United States striker Folarin Balogun for their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash, calling the move “astonishing.”
The Royal Belgian Football Association said it was surprised by FIFA’s decision to suspend Balogun’s one-match ban, arguing that the ruling contradicts the tournament’s disciplinary rules on red-card suspensions.
Balogun was sent off during the USA’s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina and was initially expected to miss the knockout match against Belgium. However, FIFA later suspended the ban under Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, placing the sanction on a one-year probation period instead.
The Belgian FA said it is now exploring all potential options to protect fair play and ensure the consistent application of the rules.
The decision has sparked controversy, especially after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly thanked FIFA for “reversing a great injustice.” Balogun, who has scored three goals in the tournament, is now available for the Belgium clash. (Newswire)