Belgium face a far bigger headache than expected this Tuesday in Seattle. Thanks to FIFA’s shock decision to lift Folarin Balogun’s suspension, the US striker - sent off against Bosnia - will now line up against the Red Devils in the World Cup last-16. Last result: Spain 2-1 Belgium (2026-07-10). The move has sparked outrage across Belgian media.
What happened?
On Sunday, July 5, FIFA’s disciplinary board stunned the football world by converting Balogun’s automatic one-match ban into a suspended sentence with a one-year probation. That means the US top scorer can now face Belgium after Bosnia. The twist? US press revealed Donald Trump personally lobbied FIFA president Gianni Infantino to reopen the case.
Why is this decision so controversial?
Belgian outlets are united in fury. La Libre Belgique calls it « a hardly venerable institution selling its impartiality ». Le Soir writes: « FIFA is killing football. » RTBF’s Vincent Langendries put it bluntly: « I thought it was an April Fool’s joke. But no - this is a July whale of a scandal. » Critics slam the Infantino-Trump link as proof FIFA’s ethics are for sale.
Is this a gift to Belgium?
Pieter-Jan Calcoen, editor at Het Nieuwsblad, isn’t mincing words: « It’s 100% corrupt. They’re trying to get the best players on the pitch. » Manuel Jous, on Complètement Foot, was blunter: « Absolutely scandalous. Frankly, I’m floored. » The backlash also targets Infantino’s leadership, accused of building an empire, not a sporting future.
What’s next?
Roberto Martínez’s side must now navigate this controversy alongside their sporting challenge. Next fixture: vs Italy (away, 2026-09-25). Belgium, losers of their last two games before this World Cup, know every point counts. They fell 2-1 to Spain on July 10 - a result that stings. With Doku, Onana and Debast still sidelined, the pressure is on.
