Becky Sullivan

The U.S. striker Folarin Balogun is expected to start against Belgium in a Round of 16 match after a surprise decision by FIFA to allow him to play despite receiving a red card last week.

In an unusual move, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee announced that it would delay Folarin Balogun's one-game red card ban. It came after President Trump spoke to FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

The Americans had been heavy favorites to top the Bosnians, but the game became a nailbiter in the second half when a red card on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun set the U.S. on their heels.

The anxieties before the World Cup were many. But with the knockout round set to begin Sunday, it's fair to say: The North American World Cup has been a thrill.

Pochettino was the biggest name the U.S. men's soccer team had ever hired. His rebuild was bumpy at times — but now, with the U.S. headed to the World Cup knockout stage, the players are all in.

Win, lose or draw, the U.S. had already won Group D and a favorable path in the knockout round. A starting lineup of mostly substitutes held even with Turkey until the final play of the game.

As Christian Pulisic sat with a hurt calf, the U.S. dominated to remain undefeated in group play. With Turkey's loss to Paraguay Friday, the Americans won Group D and advanced to the knockout round.

Striker Folarin Balogun knocked in two goals, the second a one-on-two stunner to the upper corner of the net to end the first half. For the Americans, it was an impressive start to a home World Cup.

The U.S. men's national team chose to play a pair of highly-ranked, super competitive teams in the final lead-up to the World Cup: Senegal and Germany. The matches showed the U.S. is ready.

Some veterans from the last World Cup — like forward Christian Pulisic and midfielders Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams — made the team. The roster includes 13 newcomers as well.