Belgium's football federation has expressed outrage after FIFA overturned the one-match suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in Monday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) described the decision as "astonishing" and said it is exploring all possible legal and sporting options to protect the principles of fair play and the rights of all competing teams.
Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia criticized the late reversal, joking that "July 5 has become April Fool's Day," and insisted the federation is defending the integrity of football rather than its own interests.
Balogun had received a straight red card during the USA's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after a VAR review found he had stepped on an opponent. Under FIFA rules, such a dismissal normally carries an automatic one-match suspension.
However, FIFA unexpectedly suspended the ban for a one-year probationary period under its disciplinary code, meaning Balogun is eligible to face Belgium unless he commits another similar offence within the next year.
The decision has sparked widespread debate among football fans, players, and officials, with many questioning the timing and fairness of FIFA's unprecedented move. Meanwhile, the United States welcomed the ruling, with coach Mauricio Pochettino arguing that the original red card was too harsh and Balogun deserved to play.
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