The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has cleared United States forward Folarin Balogun to play in Monday’s World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium in Seattle after suspending his one-match ban.
Balogun, 25, had been facing an automatic suspension following a straight red card in the United States’ 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1.
The striker was sent off in the 64th minute after a VAR review adjudged his challenge on Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic as serious foul play.
However, in a statement released on Sunday, FIFA confirmed that it had invoked Article 27 of its disciplinary code to suspend the implementation of the sanction.
“The implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” the committee stated.
The decision means that although the red card remains on Balogun’s record, he will not serve an immediate suspension unless he commits a similar offence within the probation period.
Reacting, US Soccer welcomed the ruling, expressing satisfaction with the outcome while shifting focus to the crucial fixture.
“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow,” the federation said.
“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.”
Balogun has been a key figure in Mauricio Pochettino’s side, scoring three goals in four matches to emerge as the team’s leading scorer at the tournament. He was also on target before his dismissal against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The decision has drawn attention due to its similarity to a previous ruling involving Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo had faced a three-match suspension for violent conduct during a qualifier but saw part of the sanction converted into a probationary period after serving one game, allowing him to remain eligible for the tournament.
FIFA’s latest ruling underscores its discretionary powers in disciplinary matters, ensuring that one of the host nation’s key players remains available at a critical stage of the competition.
The development is expected to boost the United States as they prepare for a decisive encounter against Belgium.