FIFA rejects Belgian appeal over Folarin Balogun suspension lift for 2026 World Cup last 16 | OneFootball

FIFA’s appeal committee has rejected Belgium’s challenge to the lifting of Folarin Balogun’s suspension, leaving the United States forward free to face the Red Devils in the 2026 World Cup last 16 at 2am on Tuesday.

Belgium’s federation was judged to have no standing to contest the decision because it was not a party to the case.

Balogun was sent off in the round of 32 for stepping on the leg of Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic. His punishment was converted to a one-match ban suspended, with a one-year probationary period.

US president Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to seek a review of the red card, which he viewed as unjustified.

Belgium can still take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, arguing that the decision causes them harm.

Source: L'Équipe