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Folarin Balogun eligible to play for US v Belgium as FIFA rescinds suspension for red card

Published July 5, 2026 at 7:31 PM UTC

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Folarin Balogun, the United States Men's National Team's (USMNT) leading striker, has been cleared to play in the upcoming World Cup quarter-final against Belgium after FIFA rescinded his suspension. The decision comes after a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding his red card in the Round of 16 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

**Background of the Incident**

In the 64th minute of the match on July 1, 2026, Balogun was shown a straight red card by referee Raphael Claus following a VAR review. The incident occurred when Balogun's foot made contact with the ankle of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Tarik Muharemović during a challenge for the ball. The referee deemed the contact to be violent conduct, resulting in Balogun's ejection from the game. (