Belgium 'Astonished' By Folarin Balogun Ruling, Investigating 'Potential Options'

July 5, 2026 - 20:30

The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed shock on Sunday after FIFA's Disciplinary Committee suspended the one-match red card suspension for United States striker Folarin Balogun. The ruling clears Balogun to play in the round of 16 match between Belgium and the United States at Seattle Stadium on Monday.

In a brief statement, the Belgian federation said it was "astonished" by the decision and is now investigating "potential options" to challenge the ruling. The federation did not provide further details on what those options might be, but the move signals Belgium's frustration with what they see as a procedural irregularity.

Balogun received a straight red card in the final group stage match for a challenge on an opponent. Under standard FIFA disciplinary rules, a red card typically carries an automatic one-match ban. However, the Disciplinary Committee intervened to lift the suspension, allowing the striker to feature in the knockout stage clash.

The decision has added an extra layer of tension to an already high-stakes match. Belgium, a top-ranked side, will now have to contend with a fully available American attack. The Belgian camp has not ruled out further action, but with the match just hours away, any formal appeal would likely come after the final whistle.