Belgium Appeals FIFA Decision on Balogun’s Suspension

Mere hours before the World Cup round of 16 match, Belgium received the right to appeal FIFA’s decision regarding U.S. striker Folarin Balogun’s one-game suspension.

The Belgian soccer federation and U.S. Soccer were directed to submit their arguments to the FIFA appeals committee by 8 a.m. ET on Monday, July 6. A ruling is expected before the match begins at 8 p.m. ET, though Belgium has no guarantee of this.

Originally, Balogun was handed a red card in the USA’s victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. His suspension for the Belgium match was overturned after President Donald Trump requested FIFA president Gianni Infantino to reassess the decision.

The Belgian federation stated its surprise at FIFA’s move to suspend the ban for a year. Coach Rudi Garcia reflected this sentiment, expressing dissatisfaction with FIFA’s choice during a media opportunity on Sunday. Garcia remarked, “I thought the World Cup was in July, not April. It’s now April Fools.” He emphasized, “We’re not defending the national team or the federation. We’re defending football.”

The Athletic highlighted Belgium’s request for a detailed explanation of the reversal, though FIFA’s disciplinary committee is not obligated to make such information public.

Balogun’s contribution of three goals makes him the leading scorer for the USA in the World Cup. His inclusion strengthens the American team’s effort to reach the tournament’s quarterfinals.