US to face Belgium in World Cup showdown as star striker's red card ban lifted
Summary
The U.S. men's soccer team will play Belgium in the World Cup round of 16 match with their top striker Folarin Balogun allowed to participate after FIFA put his one-game suspension on hold. Balogun received a red card in a previous game, but FIFA decided to suspend the penalty for one year, meaning he can play unless he commits another similar foul during that time.Key Facts
- Folarin Balogun was given a red card during the U.S. game against Bosnia-Herzegovina, which usually means a one-game ban.
- FIFA said the suspension is on probation for one year and will only be enforced if Balogun commits a similar foul again.
- Belgium's football association expressed shock at FIFA’s decision to let Balogun play.
- UEFA criticized the decision, saying red card suspensions are set rules and should not be changed during a tournament.
- The U.S. team won their previous match 2-0 against Bosnia-Herzegovina and advanced to play Belgium.
- This victory was the U.S. men’s first World Cup round of 32 win since 2002.
- The U.S. team finished the World Cup group stage with 2 wins and 1 loss.
- The match between the U.S. and Belgium is scheduled for Monday at 8 p.m. ET in Seattle Stadium.
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