The United States men’s national soccer team has received a major boost ahead of its World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium national football team after FIFA suspended the one-match ban handed to striker Folarin Balogun.

Balogun had originally been ruled out of Monday night’s knockout match after receiving a red card during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team on July 1.

The dismissal followed a second-half collision involving an opposing player’s foot, triggering an automatic one-match suspension. At the time, FIFA said the decision was final and not subject to appeal.

However, the governing body announced on Sunday that enforcement of the suspension has been postponed.

“The implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA said in a statement.

Under the decision, Balogun will remain eligible to play unless he commits another offense of a similar nature and seriousness during the probationary period.

FIFA added that any comparable infringement within the next year would result in the suspended sanction being reinstated, in addition to any new disciplinary measures.

The decision prompted a strong reaction from the Royal Belgian Football Association.

In a statement, the federation said it was “astonished” by FIFA’s ruling and indicated it was reviewing its legal options.

“In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options,” the organization said.

Following the Bosnia-Herzegovina match, U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino said Balogun had been deeply disappointed by the red card, maintaining that the incident was accidental.

According to ESPN, Pochettino described the striker as “sad” and insisted there was no intent to injure his opponent.

Balogun’s availability provides a significant boost for the United States as it prepares to face Belgium for a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.

The striker has been one of the Americans’ key attacking threats during the tournament, and his return is expected to strengthen the team’s chances in one of its biggest matches in more than two decades.