‘I didn’t know that in FIFA, July 5th is April Fools’ Day’ – Belgium boss Rudi Garcia responds to Folarin Balogun’s red card being suspended

Belgium manager Rudi Garcia has reacted with disbelief after FIFA dramatically suspended the red card handed to Folarin Balogun in the round of 32.

The United States striker is clear to face the Red Devils in Sunday’s World Cup last-16 clash.

Balogun appeared certain to miss the knockout tie after receiving a straight red card during the 2-0 victory over Bosnia & Herzegovina in the previous round.

The 25-year-old was dismissed for a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic, triggering an automatic one-match suspension under FIFA’s disciplinary rules.

However, in a surprise decision announced on Saturday, FIFA confirmed that it had put the suspension on hold for a one-year probationary period under Article 27 of the disciplinary code.

The governing body offered no further explanation, other than citing the regulation that permits sanctions to be suspended.

The ruling means Balogun is immediately eligible to feature against Belgium, with the suspension only set to be activated if he commits a similar offence during the probationary period.

The decision has sparked outrage, with the Royal Belgian Football Association describing the move as ‘astonishing’ and confirming it is exploring every possible avenue in response.

Garcia also made his feelings clear during his pre-match press conference, delivering a sarcastic response to the controversy.

“I didn’t know that in FIFA, July 5th is April Fools’ Day,” the Belgium boss quipped when asked about the decision (via L’Equipe).

US president Donald Trump reportedly contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun’s red card.

Shortly after FIFA’s announcement, Trump welcomed the outcome on his Truth Social application, thanking the governing body for ‘reversing a great injustice’.

Trump’s relationship with Infantino has caused a kerfuffle.

Fifty European Parliament members (MEPs) have called on FIFA to respond to an ethics complaint concerning Infantino’s decision to award Trump the FIFA Peace Prize.

Balogun’s availability is a major boost for Mauricio Pochettino’s side. He is expected to lead the line as the US chase a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.

They are up against an angry Belgian team that bounced back from adversity to send Senegal packing in the round of 32.