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MLS·July 5, 2026 06:29 PM ET

FIFA suspends Balogun ban, clearing striker for Belgium clash

U.S. regains its leading scorer for knockout test.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 51 min read
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What happened: FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun’s automatic one-match ban, making him eligible for the United States’ World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium. The sanction will remain suspended during a one-year probationary period.

Why it matters: The decision restores the U.S. attack’s leading scorer for a win-or-go-home match. Belgium’s federation is examining its options after objecting to the ruling.

By the numbers: Balogun has scored three goals at the tournament. His suspended sanction carries a one-year probationary period.

What to watch: The United States faces Belgium on Monday in Seattle. Any similar offense during Balogun’s probation could reactivate the suspension and bring an additional sanction.

Sources

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