Belgium has expressed strong objections following FIFA's last-minute decision to clear American striker Folarin Balogun to play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium, scheduled for Monday, July 6, in Seattle.

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) released a statement saying they were "stunned by FIFA's decision to declare suspended American player Folarin Balogun eligible to play," arguing that the ruling violates both the FIFA Disciplinary Code and World Cup regulations. Belgium is reportedly "considering all possible options" in response.

FIFA's Disciplinary Committee cited article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code to suspend the automatic suspension of Balogun for a probationary period of one year. The committee stated, "Pursuant to article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the application of the automatic suspension of American player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

This decision overturns the expected suspension that would have resulted from a red card, which under article 66.4 of the same code normally leads to an automatic suspension for the next match. The RBFA contends this reversal undermines the "legitimate rights of all participating teams and preserve[s] the fundamental principles of fair play."

The controversy arises as the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) prepares for a highly anticipated match against Belgium, ranked 9th in the FIFA World Rankings after a 5-2 friendly win over the US earlier in the year.

Former USMNT defender Jonathan Bornstein has praised the current US squad as the most talented ever, highlighting their impact on growing soccer's popularity in America.

Sources