KBVB's race against the clock to overturn FIFA's Balogun ruling

In the KBVB offices in Brussels, officials are racing to submit an appeal before the 14:00 CET deadline, after FIFA announced on Sunday that it would set aside the red card shown to American striker Folarin Balogun in the match against Bosnia. The Athletic reported that the KBVB formally lodged an appeal with FIFA, a step that is permitted under the governing body’s rules. confirmed the appeal, noting that the Belgian federation has received the green light to proceed. FIFA’s decision to set aside Balogun’s red card came shortly after a phone call from U.S. President Donald Trump to the organization, according to the Athletic. The decision was taken on Sunday.

KBVB closes Balogun case but warns FIFA over flawed process

Both US Soccer and the KBVB were instructed to file a response by Monday morning at 14:00 CET. The Belgian federation has not yet received the official FIFA decision, as it remains unpublished. The required documents must be submitted by 14:00 Belgian time, with the possibility of a ruling before the upcoming match. FIFA has said it cannot provide certainty on the timing, and the KBVB has asked for the full motivation from FIFA’s disciplinary committee, though it is unclear whether it will be received. indicated that FIFA has appointed an arbitrator to decide the case, turning the process into a ‘race against the clock’ because the match is scheduled for the following night at 02:00. The Belgian FA issued a statement condemning FIFA’s decision, and national team coach Rudi Garcia also voiced strong criticism of the ruling.