FIFA Suspends Balogun Red Card Ahead of Round of 16 Match

The US Men’s National Team just got a massive break heading into their Round of 16 matchup on Monday. 

FIFA announced today that it is suspending the red card received by Florian Balogun in the team’s Round of 32 match. While the league is only suspending the one-game ban that comes with a red card, it clears the way for the team’s top scorer to play against Belgium. 

However, if he commits a red-card-level foul, the league reserves the right to reapply the ban in addition to any additional penalties.

VAR Triggers Questionable Red Card

FIFA has a long history of making exceptions for its biggest stars and storylines, but this decision is easy to justify.

The red card was issued for Balogun stepping on an opponent's ankle while making a play for the ball. There was no call made on the pitch, but a VAR review was triggered. While analysts expected a yellow card, the soccer world was left stunned when referee Raphael Claus instead held up a red card. It resulted in the US playing for over 40 minutes down a player.

While Balogun clearly committed a foul, there was no indication of intent. Both players were moving towards the ball, and the replays show that Balogun was clearly tracking it. The USMNT went on to win the match, but were at a massive disadvantage without their star for a far tougher matchup on Monday.

FIFA Cites Article 27

In its announcement, FIFA cited Article 27 FDC. This allows the league to review and suspend red cards when appropriate. Players are placed on probation when this happens, allowing the league to impose the penalty if they commit a similar foul. The probationary period can last for up to four years. 

FIFA using article 27 of code

“The judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of
a disciplinary measure. By suspending the implementation of the sanction, the judicial body subjects the
person sanctioned to a probationary period of 1 to 4 years” https://t.co/dEyu773fQZ pic.twitter.com/eFKRWwcVgy

— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) July 5, 2026

Bad News for Belgium

While there aren’t many fans arguing Blogun’s red card was deserved, Belgium fans will have plenty of reason to be frustrated with FIFA’s ruling.

The Red Devils entered the 2026 World Cup with high hopes, but have not looked like a contender so far. They drew with Egypt and Iran in the group stage, and needed three goals after the 85th minute to get past Senegal in the Round of 32. It wasn’t pretty, but the dramatic comeback reminded us how good this squad can be.

Unfortunately, the odds are stacked against them against the USMNT. The match will be played at Lumen Field, which was designed to be as loud as possible. Now, their opponent will have its top scorer and a ton of confidence as they head to Seattle. 

Belgium is more than capable of pulling off this upset, but Balogun’s return makes that task far more difficult.