Balogun red card overturned, clearing USA striker for Belgium round of 16

Folarin Balogun will be available for the United States’ round of 16 match against Belgium after his red card was overturned on Sunday, with a ruling determining the dismissal issued in the 64th minute of the USA’s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina should never have been awarded.

Balogun had been facing an automatic suspension for the knockout-stage fixture after being sent off during the round of 32 victory, despite having scored the opening goal in the 45th minute. The United States went on to win that match 2-0 with ten men, but the red card left Balogun’s availability for the Belgium tie in serious doubt.

The reversal means the Monaco forward — one of the USA’s most dangerous attacking options — will now be free to feature in what is expected to be a tightly contested last-16 encounter. Former United States internationals reacted to the news on social media, expressing relief and excitement at the prospect of Balogun returning to the starting line-up.

The decision is a significant boost for the United States ahead of a match that carries enormous weight for a squad looking to make a deep run in the tournament. Balogun’s pace and finishing ability had been central to the team’s attacking play in the group stage, making his potential absence a genuine concern for head coach Mauricio Pochettino and his staff.

With the suspension lifted, the USA go into Monday night’s round of 16 at full attacking strength.