Belgium riled by US striker Balogun's inclusion in last-16

Belgian midfielder Nicolas Raskin said the recent FIFA ruling permitting United States striker Folarin Balogun to take the field against Belgium has added extra motivation for his side ahead of their last‑16 clash in Seattle. The decision, confirmed earlier this week, cleared Balogun to play despite earlier eligibility questions, and Raskin noted that the move “fired us up” as Belgium prepares for the knockout match at the Seattle stadium on Thursday.

The Belgian squad, currently in the United States for the tournament, will face a United States team bolstered by Balogun’s attacking options. Raskin’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among the Belgians that the inclusion of a high‑profile forward raises the stakes and intensifies the competitive atmosphere. Both teams will look to secure a quarter‑final berth, with the outcome set to influence the trajectory of their respective campaigns in the competition.