FIFA's independent disciplinary committee suspended a one-game red card ban for United States striker Folarin Balogun on Sunday, making the forward available for the World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium in Seattle on Monday.
The 25-year-old received a straight red card during the 64th minute of the co-hosts' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32.
>>> Quebec Water Safety Group Urges Funding After Lachine Canal Rescue
A video assistant referee review showed his boot landing on the ankle of defender Tarik Muharemovic.
The governing body announced that the automatic suspension will be delayed under a probationary framework.
This allows Balogun to return to the lineup after starting three of the team's four tournament matches.
U. S.
Soccer engaged in discussions with the disciplinary body regarding the reversal and received official confirmation before Sunday's final training session at the University of Washington campus.
"I think a lot of us thought it was AI at first," joked defender Chris Richards.
He added that the striker remained calm but excited while enjoying the post-July 4 celebrations with his teammates.
"He was just enjoying the post-July 4 celebrations that we had and just enjoying being American," Richards said.
Probationary Period and Conditions
The judicial body retains full discretion to suspend the implementation of any disciplinary sanction under its current regulations.
"In line with article 27 of the Fifa disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year," FIFA stated.
