Belgium to continue war on FIFA despite World Cup progression over the USA

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FT Desk

Belgium may have humbled the United States 4-1 to progress to the quarter-final of the 2026 World Cup, but that doesn't mean they will forget the Folarin Balogun saga.

In what proved to be one of the most controversial affairs in the history of the World Cup, FIFA intervened and overturned a red card suspension given to Balogun after he was dismissed for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic in the USMNT's victory against Bosnia & Herzegovina in the Round of 32.

The Monaco striker was sent off after he raked his studs down the leg and ankle of the player, though the decision was viewed as harsh by some, as there was undoubtedly no intent in the challenge. The referee didn't give the decision during live play, but was advised to view the incident again on the monitor by VAR.

Remarkably, reports emerged over the weekend that Balogun's suspension had been overturned, marking an unprecedented decision in World Cup history. FIFA lifted the ban, citing Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, which allows it "to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure."

FIFA did not provide any further explanation for the decision initially. It was later confirmed that US President Donald Trump had personally intervened, contacting FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request that Balogun be permitted to play.

In response, the Belgian Football Association issued a statement saying it was "astonished" by the decision.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino distanced himself from the issue, saying the decision was made by FIFA's independent disciplinary panel, though Trump later confirmed the pair had spoken about it.

Football's governing body were accused of corruption and it turned out to be for absolutely nothing as the United States were defeated 4-1 by Belgium on the night, with Balogun barely having an impact on the game.

The Belgians may have qualified with ease, but that doesn't mean they are taking the previous injustice lying down.

In a new statement, the Belgian FA have reiterated their desire for an independent review into FIFA's handling of the Balogun affair.

“RBFA remains committed to advocating for a review of the current FIFA regulations and their applicatio," the statement reads.

“The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) is proud of the way the Red Devils responded on the pitch yesterday.

“At the same time, the RBFA will continue to pursue the ongoing FIFA matter off the pitch. The RBFA firmly believes that international football is best served by a disciplinary and governance framework that fully upholds the principles of legal certainty, transparency, equal treatment and fair play.

“Clear procedures, respect for the rights of defence and the consistent application of the regulations are essential to maintaining the confidence of member associations, coaches, players, supporters and all other stakeholders in our sport.

“Regardless of the sporting outcome, the RBFA will continue to advocate for the correct and consistent application of these principles by FIFA, ensuring that any form of arbitrariness is avoided.

“In doing so, we feel supported by millions of football fans around the world, as well as by many other member associations.

“Finally, on behalf of the coaching staff and the players, we would like to sincerely thank the Belgian supporters for their incredible and unwavering support throughout this FIFA World Cup. Now, together, our full focus turns to Friday's quarter-final against Spain.”

Belgium's performances have been a slow-burn at the World Cup but they burst into life with an outstanding performance against the USA and can now dream of a semi-final berth should they overcome Spain on Friday.