FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's one-match red-card ban allowed the U.S. team's leading scorer to participate in the crucial match against Belgium. Initially sent off during the Round-of-32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun's red card was overturned, a ruling that Belgium contested but was deemed inadmissible by FIFA.
This controversy has drawn significant attention, particularly after President Donald Trump publicly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to reconsider the decision, raising concerns about potential political influence on sports governance.
In the match itself, Belgium took a commanding lead with Charles De Ketelaere scoring twice, while the U.S. managed to equalize briefly through a deflected free kick from Malik Tillman. However, Belgium regained control, ultimately winning 3-1. Additionally, Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey ended as Portugal lost 1-0 to Spain, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal late in the match