Former American football player previews USA’s game against Belgium
Former USMNT defender Jonathan Bornstein previews the FIFA World Cup match against Belgium. Bornstein says this current generation is the most talented USMNT team ever, featuring players from Europe’s top clubs. He explains how the team’s exciting journey is accelerating the growth and popularity of soccer across America, inspiring young fans.
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The momentum is building for the American team after their victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 16.
And what was originally a bittersweet ending in the San Francisco Bay Area due to striker Folarin Balogun’s red card has since changed thanks to FIFA’s announcement that the USMNT star will be able to play in the round of 16 against Belgium on Monday night.
Balogun’s controversial red card, which came in the 64th minute of the 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, changed the trajectory of the USMNT’s hopes of qualifying for the World Cup final. After all, Balogun has been the perfect striker for this team since the start of the tournament, scoring his third World Cup goal in the round of 16.
WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE
American striker Folarin Balogun’s controversial red card was one of the most notable moments in the team’s victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images))
FIFA issues final decision on controversial red card suspension of American soccer star Folarin Balogun
However, Balogun will now be available for the United States, following the outcry over his red card.
The Athletic, which first reported Balogun’s playing status on Sunday, noted that part of FIFA’s disciplinary code states that “the judicial body may decide to totally or partially suspend the application of a disciplinary measure.”
“If the person benefiting from a suspended sanction commits another offense of similar nature and seriousness during the probationary period, the suspension will be revoked by the judicial body and the sanction executed without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new offense,” adds the regulation.
FOX Sports also confirmed that Balogun would be able to play. The report notes that the play should not have been reported to head referee Raphael Claus, who ultimately gave Balogun a red card after a VAR review.
WATCH USA VERSUS BELGIUM
In turn, head coach Mauricio Pochettino will be able to run with his usual starting XI instead of having to figure out what to do about Balogun.
Auston Trusty celebrates with his teammates after scoring the first goal for the United States during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D match against Türkiye at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California on June 25, 2026. (Jared C. Tilton/FIFA via Getty Images)
On the other hand, Belgium were 10 minutes plus stoppage time away from a clash against Senegal in the round of 16. Senegal held a 2-0 lead late in the second half, but Belgium managed to force overtime thanks to some decisive goals from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans.
BELGIUM COMPLETES STUNNING WORLD CUP RETURNS AGAINST SENEGAL TO SET UP POTENTIAL CLASH WITH USA
In extra time, just before penalties appeared to be the only way to break the deadlock, a foul was committed by Senegal in their own area and Tielemans was awarded a penalty to decide the match. The veteran did not miss the opportunity and Belgium kept their World Cup alive.
Now, these two teams will meet again in Seattle, which was an electric atmosphere for the USMNT’s victory over Australia in the group stage. It’s expected to be even louder, as the United States aims to do what only one team in its history has done before: reach the quarterfinals.
Here’s how to watch the game, including start time, TV information and streaming options.
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USMNT fans across the country brought their patriotism to the team’s World Cup opener. (Photo by José Hernández/Anadolu via Getty Images)
How to watch USA vs Belgium
When: Monday, July 6 at 8 p.m. ET
Or : Seattle Stadium, Seattle, Washington
TV: FOX
Flow: Watch on FOX One and FOX Sports
