Balogun's Ban Suspended After Trump Call
The United States men's national team received a major boost ahead of their World Cup last-16 clash with Belgium as striker Folarin Balogun had his one-game suspension rescinded by FIFA. The former Arsenal forward was sent off in the round of 32 against Bosnia and Herzegovina after VAR deemed he stepped on defender Tarik Muharemovic's ankle. However, FIFA reversed the decision following a phone call from US President Donald Trump, leading to a scathing statement from UEFA and potential legal action from Belgium.
US Team News
Balogun, who opened the scoring in the 45th minute against Bosnia, is now available for selection under coach Mauricio Pochettino. The US are the only co-host still in the tournament after Mexico lost to England and Canada fell to Morocco. Defender Mark McKenzie and midfielder Cristian Roldan are the only absentees with foot and muscle injuries. Predicted lineup (4-3-3): Matt Freese; Alex Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson; Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, Malik Tillman; Sergino Dest, Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic.
Belgium Team News
Belgium have no injury concerns, according to coach Rudi Garcia. They narrowly defeated Senegal 3-2 in extra time in the previous round and topped Group G. Thibaut Courtois starts in goal, with a defense featuring Brandon Mechele and Arthur Theate. Maxim de Cuyper and Timothy Castagne are the full-backs. In midfield, Youri Tielemans is a fixture, likely partnered by Hans Vanaken, with Kevin De Bruyne as the No.10. Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard support striker Romelu Lukaku. Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Theate, De Cuyper; Tielemans, Vanaken; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; Lukaku.
Match Details
The match kicks off at 1am BST on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Seattle Stadium, Washington, and will be broadcast on BBC.
