Belgium 'considering all possible options' after FIFA clears Team USA's Folarin Balogun

Former USMNT defender Jonathan Bornstein previews the national team's FIFA World Cup match against Belgium. Bornstein asserts this current generation is the most talented USMNT squad ever, featuring players from top European clubs. He explains how the team's exciting run is accelerating soccer's growth and popularity across America, inspiring young fans.

Belgium is crying foul after FIFA cleared USMNT star Folarin Balogun before Monday's World Cup Round of 16 showdown in Seattle.

The Royal Belgian Football Association released a statement on the overturned suspension, saying they were "stunned by FIFA's decision to declare suspended American player Folarin Balogun eligible to play," arguing the ruling violates both the FIFA Disciplinary Code and World Cup regulations.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks during the 2026 Semafor World Economy conference in Washington, D.C., on April 15, 2026. (Kent Nishimura/AFP)

The federation concluded by saying it is "considering all possible options" to protect "the legitimate rights of all participating teams and preserve the fundamental principles of fair play."

FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION

FIFA, however, wasn't persuaded.

"Pursuant to article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the application of the automatic suspension of American player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year," the FIFA Disciplinary Committee said in an official statement.

The ruling means Balogun, who was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, is eligible to face Belgium on Monday night.

USA WORLD CUP STAR CALLS LACK OF APPEAL PROCESS FOR TEAMMATE'S RED CARD 'BOGUS'

President Trump celebrated the ruling on