Crypto bettors believe Balogun’s suspended red card will give USA edge over Belgium
Prediction markets shifted slightly toward the United States after FIFA cleared striker Folarin Balogun for Monday’s World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium. Polymarket prices put the US at about 39% to win in regulation, versus 35% for Belgium and 29% for a draw, with more than $6 million bet. Kalshi also showed a narrow US edge in advancement markets. Balogun’s return mattered because he has scored three goals in three starts and is a key attacking threat for the US, which is trying to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2002. FIFA suspended Balogun’s one-match ban under its disciplinary rules after a red card in the previous match, a decision that drew sharp criticism from Belgian officials and UEFA, who questioned the precedent and process. US President Donald Trump publicly praised FIFA’s move, and coach Mauricio Pochettino defended it as correcting a harsh call.
