FIFA rejected Belgium's appeal against Folarin Balogun playing in the World Cup last-16 match against the USA. The decision came after the governing body suspended the striker's one-match ban from a red card in the round of 32.
The match was scheduled for Monday, July 6 at Lumen Field in Seattle with kick-off at 01:00 BST on Tuesday. Balogun was expected to start for the USA after FIFA invoked Article 27 of its disciplinary code to suspend his ban for one year.
Belgium's appeal was ruled inadmissible because the Royal Belgian Football Association was not a party to the proceedings. The RBFA said it received no explanation or decision from FIFA and accused the body of lacking transparency.
US President Donald Trump confirmed he spoke to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review. UEFA described the decision as unprecedented and unjustifiable, warning it undermined the integrity of the competition.
Line-ups showed Balogun in the USA starting XI alongside Christian Pulisic, while Belgium made four changes including starts for Nathan Ngoy and Dodi Lukebakio.
