Folarin Balogun and Dodi Lukebakio Confirmed Starters for Belgium in 2026 World Cup Round of 16

Folarin Balogun will start for Belgium in their round of 16 match against the United States at the 2026 World Cup, with Dodi Lukebakio also confirmed in the starting lineup. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty regarding Balogun's availability due to a suspension issue.

The match, scheduled to kick off at 01:00, is a crucial knockout stage fixture in the 2026 World Cup. Belgium, a team with a strong footballing pedigree, will face the host nation, the United States, in what promises to be a highly competitive encounter. The confirmation of Balogun and Lukebakio as starters is significant for the Belgian squad as they look to advance further in the tournament.

Balogun's starting position had been in doubt following a red card he received in the round of 32 match against Bosnia, which initially resulted in a suspension. However, FIFA's decision to lift this suspension has allowed him to participate in this important game. This ruling has sparked criticism from various parties, including UEFA, Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, and the Belgian Football Association itself, which has expressed concerns and indicated it might contest the result should Belgium be eliminated.

Alongside Balogun, Dodi Lukebakio, the Benfica winger, will also start. Lukebakio impressed during Belgium's previous 3-2 victory over Senegal, coming on as a substitute when Belgium was trailing 0-2 and making a notable impact, including hitting the crossbar. His inclusion in the starting eleven reflects the coaching staff's confidence in his ability to influence the game from the outset. Additionally, Zeno Debast, a center-back from Sporting, will be available on the bench, providing defensive options if needed.

Looking ahead, Belgium will aim to build on their recent performances and navigate the challenges posed by the United States in this knockout stage. The outcome of this match will be pivotal for Belgium's aspirations in the tournament. Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding Balogun's suspension and FIFA's decision may continue to attract attention as the World Cup progresses. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these developments impact Belgium's campaign and the broader tournament narrative.