Just hours after it appeared the U.S. Men's National Team would be without one of its biggest stars, FIFA made a stunning reversal that has changed the outlook for the Americans' World Cup run.
Striker Folarin Balogun is now eligible to play in the United States' Round of 16 match against Belgium after FIFA suspended the one-match ban that automatically followed his red card during the team's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Balogun had been shown a straight red card late in the match, triggering an automatic suspension under FIFA's disciplinary rules. The decision initially meant he would miss one of the most important games of the tournament.
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On Sunday, July 5, however, FIFA announced it had suspended enforcement of the ban while the incident undergoes further disciplinary review. Although the governing body has not overturned the red card itself, the move allows Balogun to take the field against Belgium while the review continues.
The decision is considered highly unusual. Automatic suspensions following straight red cards are rarely delayed or reversed so close to a knockout match, making FIFA's action one of the tournament's biggest surprises.
The timing couldn't be better for the United States. Balogun has been a key part of the American attack throughout the tournament, leading the team in scoring and providing a consistent offensive threat. His availability gives head coach Mauricio Pochettino one of his most dangerous weapons as the Americans look to advance to the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.
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The unexpected ruling sparked immediate reaction across the soccer world. Many U.S. players reportedly said they were stunned by the news, with some initially believing the announcement wasn't real because such disciplinary reversals are so uncommon. The decision also drew attention outside the sports world, with President Donald Trump publicly praising FIFA's move.
Whether FIFA ultimately upholds or rescinds the original red card remains to be seen. For now, though, the United States has received a significant boost just as the stakes are at their highest, with one of its top scorers back in the lineup for a pivotal World Cup showdown.
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