Gary Lineker says USA should have omitted Balogun vs Belgium

Folarin Balogun was allowed to play for the United States after his one‑match suspension was lifted just before the round‑of‑16 clash with Belgium. The decision sparked debate over FIFA’s disciplinary consistency and the impact on the tournament’s integrity.

Former England striker Gary Lineker criticized the move, labeling it a strategic blunder. Tournament officials maintain that the eligibility ruling was fully compliant.