Folarin Balogun being eligible to play means the United States will have a full squad when it faces Belgium on Monday night in the World Cup round of 16, former U.S. team member Jonathan Bornstein told Newsmax on Monday.
Appearing on Newsmax's "Wake Up America," Bornstein applauded FIFA's decision to overturn Balogun's one-match suspension stemming from the U.S. striker's controversial red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
President Donald Trump also praised the reversal, calling it the correction of "a great injustice."
"I think it's a great decision by FIFA on this call," said Bornstein, a former U.S. defender who played in the 2010 World Cup. "The majority of U.S. soccer fans and the entire world did not think that was deserving of a red card."
Bornstein said FIFA's decision not only corrected what many viewed as an unfair call but also could establish an important precedent for future disciplinary reviews.
"More than anything, it's important that the U.S. has a huge match, they have a full squad, and are more than prepared to go out and face Belgium tonight, and hopefully, get the win," he said.
FIFA confirmed Sunday that Balogun's automatic suspension had been lifted, making the Monaco striker available for the knockout-round clash after a successful appeal.
Bornstein also praised the World Cup atmosphere in the United States, saying the tournament has exceeded expectations by drawing enthusiastic crowds and showcasing American hospitality to visiting fans.
"I'm actually not very surprised at the way it's gone," he said. "I've been super impressed with the way the fans have shown up to support their teams."
Living in the Los Angeles area, Bornstein said he has attended multiple matches at SoFi Stadium and enjoyed interacting with supporters from around the globe.
"They're amazed at the hospitality that I think the American people have been showing," he said. "It's been really amazing to have the soccer stuff going on, but also on just the human side of things."
Looking ahead to Monday night's matchup, Bornstein called Belgium a dangerous, attack-minded opponent, recalling the Americans' heartbreaking loss to the Red Devils in the 2014 World Cup, when goalkeeper Tim Howard made what was then a record 15 saves.
He said the U.S. must play aggressively by pressing Belgium's defense and creating chances behind its back line.
Midfielder Tyler Adams, captain Christian Pulisic, and Balogun will need standout performances, he added.
Bornstein predicted a tightly contested match but believes the Americans can advance.
"I think it's going to be about a 2-1 game," he said. "Of course, Team USA."
The winner will advance to the World Cup quarterfinals to face either Portugal or Spain.
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