The Belgium national team is questioning Folarin Balogun's eligibility for the World Cup round of 16 match against the US. The Belgian Football Union announced this in a statement released a few hours before the match.

What happened?

The cancellation of Folarin Balogun's suspension has sparked many reactions. Professor Marek Hudon from the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management (ULB) believes that this decision « goes far beyond the realm of sports ».

Why does it matter for Belgium?

Belgium is currently in the midst of the World Cup, with a last result of 0-0 against Iran on June 21, 2026. The Red Devils have a recent form of 3 wins and 2 draws in 5 matches and remain unbeaten in the last 5 matches.

What comes next?

The Red Devils will face the US tonight, then play their next match against Italy on September 25, 2026. The Belgian Football Union shared a visual on social media with the inscription « Red is Red » in reference to the Balogun affair.