US Forward Balogun Cleared to Play Against Belgium After Red Card Suspension Is Overturned

US national team striker Folarin Balogun will be available for the World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium after his one-match suspension for a direct red card was surprisingly overturned on Sunday. The 25-year-old forward had been sent off last week in the group stage game against Bosnia and Herzegovina following a serious foul on defender Tarik Muharemovic. FIFA's decision allows Balogun to play in the knockout match scheduled for the night between Monday and Tuesday at 3:00 AM in Seattle.

The reversal was based on Article 27 of FIFA's disciplinary code, which permits the adjudicating body to suspend or partially suspend a disciplinary sanction. The article also states that if the player commits a similar offense during the probation period, the original sanction can be reinstated along with any new penalties. Shortly after the announcement, British journalist Ben Jacobs reported that the White House had directly contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun's red card.

Following the decision, US President Donald Trump tweeted his thanks to FIFA for correcting what he called a "gross injustice." Balogun is currently the top scorer for the US team in this World Cup, having scored three goals, including the opener in the 2-0 victory over Bosnia. Should the US defeat Belgium, it will mark their first World Cup quarterfinal appearance since 2002.