FIFA Suspends Red Card Ban Under Article 27
Folarin Balogun will be available to face Belgium after FIFA opted to suspend his automatic one-match ban under Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code. The red card itself still stands on his record. However, the accompanying suspension is now paused for a one-year probationary period.
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the USMNT’s 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, following a VAR review that showed him stepping on defender Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle. The offense was classified as serious foul play, triggering an automatic ban under standard World Cup rules.
Yet FIFA’s ruling gives the Disciplinary Committee power to fully or partially suspend such sanctions, provided no similar offense follows within the probationary window. US Soccer welcomed the decision swiftly, stating they accepted the ruling and remained focused entirely on Monday’s Round of 16 clash in Seattle.
Balogun himself had previously expressed frustration, insisting the sending off felt harsh given the contest for position with Muharemovic. His return offers a timely boost for Mauricio Pochettino’s side, who chase their first World Cup quarterfinal since 2002.
Balogun’s Breakout Tournament Continues
Balogun has emerged as the standout performer of America’s World Cup campaign, scoring three goals across four matches, including the opener against Bosnia before his dismissal. His reinstatement means Pochettino’s high pressing attacking system remains fully intact heading into a crucial knockout tie.
Notably, FIFA has used Article 27 before in similarly high profile situations. Cristiano Ronaldo benefited from an identical reduction after a violent conduct red card last year. Meanwhile, the decision quickly drew reaction beyond football circles.
US President Donald Trump praised the outcome publicly, thanking FIFA for what he called reversing a great injustice. Whatever the wider debate, Balogun now walks straight back into a heavyweight round of 16 encounter against Belgium.
Fans following every twist of the tournament can catch more World Cup breakdowns at kcpredict, while full details on the ruling are available via ESPN.