Balogun cleared for Belgium clash as Pochettino hails FIFA's reversal

A significant boost for the United States ahead of their World Cup 2026 round-of-16 showdown against Belgium. FIFA has reversed Folarin Balogun's suspension, clearing the striker to feature in one of the tournament's most anticipated knockout ties. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed his relief, claiming that the vast majority of people agreed the original ban was unjust. The Argentine tactician, who has managed elite clubs including Tottenham, PSG, and Chelsea, was emphatic in his defense of the ruling. For Pochettino, common sense prevailed, and Balogun's availability significantly strengthens his attacking options as the USMNT chase a historic quarterfinal berth on home soil. Balogun's profile makes him a crucial asset for this fixture. The former Arsenal academy product, who honed his craft in Ligue 1 with AS Monaco, brings a clinical finishing ability that could prove decisive against a Belgian defense still capable of frustrating opponents despite their ongoing generational transition. With the home crowd behind them and their key striker restored to the lineup, the USA enter this knockout stage with genuine momentum. Belgium will need to find answers to Balogun's movement and the energy of a nation expecting a deep run. This last-16 clash promises to be one of the defining moments of the 2026 World Cup.