Folarin Balogun, the American soccer star, will be available to play in the round of 16 against Belgium after his one-game red card suspension was lifted. According to reports from Dan Sheldon and Adam Crafton of The Athletic, and later confirmed by U.S. Soccer, the Disciplinary Committee has decided to suspend the implementation of the disciplinary measure.
Background on the Suspension
Balogun was initially given a red card for a foul on defender Tarik Muharemovic during the round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The incident occurred when Balogun inadvertently landed on the back of Muharemovic’s leg and stepped down on his ankle. The referee reviewed the play and deemed it a serious foul, resulting in the red card.
Article 27 of FIFA’s disciplinary code allows the judicial body to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure. In this case, the Disciplinary Committee has chosen to lift the suspension, making Balogun eligible to compete in the upcoming match.
Balogun has been a key player for the U.S. team, leading the team with three goals in the World Cup, including one in the round of 32 before his red card. His availability for the match against Belgium is a significant boost to the team’s chances.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
