What happened: Gary Neville condemned FIFA’s decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban, making the striker eligible to face Belgium. FIFA applied Article 27 after Balogun’s red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Why it matters: The ruling restores a key attacker for the United States in a knockout match while raising concerns about consistent disciplinary standards. Belgium’s federation is examining its options after challenging the decision.
By the numbers: Balogun’s one-match suspension is subject to a 12-month probation. A similar offense during that period would activate the ban and could bring an additional sanction.
What to watch: Belgium’s response and Balogun’s role in the last-16 match will be closely watched.