Belgium has been granted the right to appeal the lifting of Folarin Balogun's suspension. According to The Athletic, the Belgian federation has officially appealed to FIFA to contest the decision.

What happened?

FIFA had initially suspended Folarin Balogun after he received a red card in the round of 16 against Bosnia and Herzegovina. But on Sunday, FIFA lifted the suspension, citing article 27 of its disciplinary code.

Why is this important for Belgium?

FIFA's decision has angered the Belgian federation, which is not going to sit back and do nothing. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia reacted ironically to the decision, saying « I didn’t know it was April 1st ».

What comes next?

The American and Belgian federations have both been invited to present their arguments before 2 pm French time. The case will be examined by a member of FIFA's appeals committee. Belgium is set to play its next match against the United States on Monday night, after drawing 0-0 with Iran on June 21, 2026. Belgium is currently unbeaten in its last five matches, with a record of 3 wins and 2 draws, and will face Italy on September 25, 2026.