The United States men's national team is set to face Belgium in the round of 16 at Seattle Stadium on Monday, and a major question has been answered: Folarin Balogun will be available for selection. However, it remains to be seen whether coach Maurico Pochettino will choose to start him or stick with his original plan.
Balogun's Status Confirmed
Folarin Balogun will start for the United States against Belgium, marking his fifth start of the tournament. Ricardo Pepi, who was expected to start in Balogun's place if his suspension was upheld, will instead begin the match on the bench. The rest of the lineup remains unchanged from the round of 32.
The Reason Behind Balogun's Availability
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee ruled on Sunday that Balogun's one-match suspension for receiving a red card in the round of 32 would be suspended for one year, citing Chapter 4, Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code on suspension of implementation of disciplinary measures.
The Incident That Led to the Red Card
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the second half by referee Rafael Claus after VAR review showed that he stepped on Bosnia and Herzegovina player Tarik Muharemović's ankle.
