Folarin Balogun Returns to USA Starting XI After Red Card Suspension

In a surprising turn of events, United States forward Folarin Balogun will feature in the upcoming FIFA World Cup knockout clash against Belgium after FIFA lifted the suspension he received following a red card in the previous round. The decision came after FIFA's appeals committee rejected Belgium's protest.

FIFA ruled Belgium's challenge over Balogun's eligibility as "inadmissible", meaning the European side had to take up the matter with the US Soccer Federation if they wanted to continue the dispute.

FIFA lifted Folarin Balogun's red-card suspension, allowing him to play in the Round of 16 after United States President Donald Trump personally asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the case. However, Infantino said he had no role in the final decision.

The ruling has led to strong debate, with many questioning whether FIFA's disciplinary process was fair and consistent. Belgium also voiced its disappointment with the decision before the knockout match.

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino kept the same lineup from the previous win over Bosnia, with Matt Freese continuing in goal.

Belgium, meanwhile, left several key players on the bench, including Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, who scored in the 3-2 victory over Senegal in the last match.