FIFA Lifts Folarin Balogun’s Suspension Ahead of World Cup Game

Folarin Balogun will play for the U.S. in the World Cup elimination game against Belgium on Monday. FIFA revoked the one-game suspension issued after Balogun received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The decision came after reviewing the incident, which took place in the second half of the round of 32 game.

On Sunday, FIFA released a statement citing article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The statement explained that Balogun’s suspension is suspended for one year. If he commits a similar offense in that time, the suspension will be enforced, along with any additional penalties.

Balogun leads the U.S. team with three goals in this World Cup. He is the first American to score this many in a World Cup since 1930. The red card occurred after a collision with Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic. Balogun inadvertently stomped on Muharemovic’s ankle, leading to the referee awarding a red card after a video review.

Balogun shook hands with the referee after the game and spoke respectfully about the decision. U.S. Soccer expressed satisfaction with the Disciplinary Committee’s decision and focused on the upcoming match against Belgium. A team spokesman mentioned that FIFA’s decision reached them on Sunday, with Balogun informed during the ride to training.

Kevin Baxter from the Los Angeles Times covers soccer and hockey. His work includes contributions to three Pulitzer Prize-winning series.