sports

Belgium 'Astonished' By FIFA Balogun Ruling

Belgium's football association is astonished by FIFA's decision to allow US striker Folarin Balogun to play despite a red card suspension, calling it a contradiction of FIFA's own rules.

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) expressed astonishment after FIFA declared suspended United States striker Folarin Balogun eligible for Monday's round of 16 match against Belgium. The RBFA argues that FIFA's decision contradicts Article 66.4 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which clearly states red cards result in automatic one-match suspensions. saltysenoritaaz.com

The Belgian governing body noted that the same rule has been consistently applied throughout this FIFA World Cup and is reiterated in FIFA World Cup 2026 regulations. The RBFA is now investigating "all potential options" to protect "the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play," according to their official statement.