Belgium is outraged by FIFA's decision regarding the U.S. striker
The Royal Belgian Football Association reacted strongly to FIFA’s decision to lift the suspension of U.S. national team forward Folarin Balogun. As a result, he was able to play in the World Cup round of 16 match.
The association is “stunned by FIFA’s decision to allow a suspended player” to participate in the match. Belgian officials pointed out that the International Federation of Association Football’s Disciplinary Code explicitly states that a red card automatically results in a suspension for the next match. Balogun received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina (2–0).
The basis for overturning the suspension was another article of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The judicial body has the right to fully or partially suspend disciplinary measures. Balogun was placed on probation for one year. This rule is typically applied to lengthy suspensions (more than one match).
Currently, the Royal Belgian Football Association is exploring all possible courses of action. It is clear that officials there will appeal FIFA’s decision. The national team’s match against the U.S. national team will take place on the night of Monday, July 7.
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