Folarin Balogun available for Belgium after suspension suspended

The United States men's national team has received a significant boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal clash against Belgium, as striker Folarin Balogun has been cleared to play. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced on Sunday that Balogun's automatic match suspension has been suspended for a probationary period of one year, making him available for selection.

FIFA's Decision on Balogun's Suspension

In a statement, the committee said: “By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year.” The decision means Balogun will not serve any immediate ban, provided he avoids further disciplinary issues during the probationary period.

Balogun, 25, was born in New York and has been a key figure for the Stars and Stripes at these global finals, scoring three goals so far. His availability is crucial as the USA seek their first World Cup quarterfinal appearance since 2002, when they reached the last eight in Korea/Japan.

USA's World Cup Journey

The United States advanced to the quarterfinals after a Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The match, played at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on Wednesday, July 1, at 17:00 local time, saw the USA secure a place in the next round. Highlights of that encounter are available.

The upcoming match against Belgium revives memories of a classic World Cup meeting. The two sides last faced each other in the Round of 16 at Brazil 2014, a memorable encounter that Belgium won 2-1 in extra time. Despite the loss, USA goalkeeper Tim Howard set a World Cup record with 16 saves in that match, a performance that remains iconic.

Looking Ahead

With Balogun now eligible, the USA will aim to make history by advancing to the semifinals for the first time in the modern era. The quarterfinal against Belgium promises to be a high-stakes affair, with both teams eager to progress.