FIFA suspended the one-game red card ban of U. S.
men's national team striker Falarin Balogun on Sunday, clearing him to play in Monday's World Cup round-of-16 knockout match against Belgium at Lumen Field in Seattle.
The surprise decision reverses a suspension Balogun received after a video review during the round of 32 for stepping on the ankle of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Tarik Muharemovic.
News of the reversal reached American players via social media while traveling on the team bus to a training session at the University of Washington.
Balogun remains the most effective attacking player for the United States in the tournament, having scored twice against Paraguay, forced an own goal against Australia, and scored against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
His return alters tactical preparations for both teams. Balogun entered the tournament following an 11-goal club season with Monaco in France's Ligue 1.
"Obviously for us, it gives us a boost," said Christian Pulisic, U. S.
star.
The American attackers had previously trained under multiple tactical scenarios throughout the week, including lineups that did not feature Balogun.
"Balo is always available," said Pulisic.
"I feel like when I have the ball, when others have the ball, he's making runs, he's so strong, he's quick, and he does a lot of good things.
So, for us to play with a guy like that, it just … it makes it easy."
U. S.
teammates expressed immediate relief regarding the depth of the roster, which previously relied on Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright as alternative forward options.
"We have guys that can step up, there's no doubt about it," said Pulisic. "Obviously we weren't sure that this would happen, so it changes things.
But we were prepared."
Team members noted that Balogun maintained a positive demeanor despite the initial disciplinary ruling.
"If you look at the foul, it was just, it's zero intent at all," said Pulisic.
"I just felt like there was much worse (tackles) that went on in this tournament.
I thought Balo handled it so well, and I think the team handled it well.
We weren't here to complain or make some (problems), like you have to handle it in a good way and good things happen to people like that.
He was so positive and all for the team. It just feels right, I guess."
Pulisic concluded by expressing personal satisfaction regarding his teammate's cleared status for the upcoming knockout stage match.
"We've been granted this opportunity to have him, which is great for us," said Pulisic. "And I'm mostly just happy for him.
Seeing that smile on his face…he deserves to be playing in this game."
Defensive players also acknowledged the emotional lift the administrative reversal provided during their final pitch preparations.
"We're very happy, we know how much impact he can make on the game," said Alex Freeman, defender.
"Finding out he's available just gives us extra confidence."
Members of the back line highlighted how Balogun's presence alters the defensive strategy of opposing European sides.
