FIFA has cleared US forward Folarin Balogun to play in the country’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium after overturning the suspension that followed his controversial red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun, who scored the opening goal in the United States’ Round of 32 triumph over Bosnia and Herzegovina, was sent off later in the game, resulting in an automatic one-match suspension.
However, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee reversed the punishment ahead of Monday’s knockout match in Seattle, finding that the disciplinary penalty should be suspended, according to Fox Sports.
FIFA said that the penalty will be suspended for a year.
“In line with article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” the football body said in a statement.
The US Soccer Federation was unable to appeal the red card under FIFA regulations, but US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for it to be rescinded.
The incident became contentious when the video assistant referee intervened and asked Brazilian referee Raphael Claus to review the challenge using the pitch-side monitor, despite Balogun’s refusal.
Reacting to the development, the United States Soccer Federation welcomed the decision.
“We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow.
“Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans,” the federation said in a statement issued via Fox football analyst Stu Holden.
