U.S. lead scorer Folarin Balogun will play in World Cup match against Belgium after suspension is lifted

Lead U.S. Men’s National Team scorer Folarin Balogun will be eligible to play in the World Cup match against Belgium tomorrow, after FIFA’s disciplinary committee overturned a red card suspension he received on Wednesday. 

The news was first reported by The Athletic and confirmed by U.S. Soccer. The organization said that it is “pleased” that Balogun will be able to compete at the match in Seattle, Washington. 

Referees called it a “serious foul” when Balogun collided with a Bosnian defender while trying to get in position for a pass in the second half of the United States’ match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun raked his cleats down the player’s leg and landed on his ankle. Balogun was sent off after a referee punished him with a red card following a VAR review. The U.S. went on to win the match, but Balogun’s suspension was set to keep him from Monday’s game. 

The call was immediately controversial: Red flags are meant to be used for intentionally dirty plays, and Balogun’s actions appeared accidental. Players on the USMNT told CBS News they disagreed with the decision. 

U.S. Soccer did not say why FIFA’s disciplinary committee overturned the suspension. FIFA has not issued a statement. Typically, red card suspensions are not eligible for review. 

President Trump posted on social media praising FIFA’s decision, saying the organization did “what was right” and reversed “a great injustice.” 

Star USMNT player Christian Pulisic told CBS News that Balogun is “super happy” with the decision, as is the rest of the team. 

“Just a big smile on his face and all of ours,” Pulisic said.