Belgian FA's Instant Reaction to FIFA Suspending Folarin Balogun's One-Game Ban Has Been Revealed

Belgian football authorities are weighing a possible legal response after FIFA suspended U.S. striker Folarin Balogun’s one-game ban following a red card incident. FIFA applied Article 27 to allow Balogun to continue in the tournament, making him available for the United States’ Round of 16 match against Belgium on Tuesday, July 7. While FIFA’s move has drawn widespread backlash, the Belgian FA has not yet issued an official reply, according to De Standaard, and is investigating appeal options. The ban stemmed from the U.S. 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, where Balogun left his studs on Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic’s calf. After an initial non-call by referee Raphael Claus, VAR prompted a pitchside review leading to the red card. Local reports said Belgium would have to adjust preparations, and noted U.S. striker Balogun is among the team’s key scorers, entering with three goals in as many games.