U.S. striker Folarin Balogun's red card suspension was lifted by FIFA, making him eligible for the World Cup last-16 match against Belgium. This extraordinary decision came after Donald Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun's sending-off during the U.S.'s 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Balogun had received a straight red card in the second half for stepping on an opponent's ankle, a decision that U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino deemed unfair.
FIFA announced that the implementation of the match suspension would be suspended for a probationary period of one year, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code. This means Balogun can play, but if he commits a similar infringement within the year, the suspension will be reinstated along with any new penalties. This move, which marks the first time since 1962 a World Cup red card suspension has been lifted, was met with praise from Trump, who called it a reversal of "a great injustice."
The decision has sparked significant controversy, particularly from Belgium's team and coach Rudi Garcia, who expressed astonishment and mocked the ruling, questioning the integrity of the sport. The Royal Belgian Football Association is investigating all options to safeguard fair play. Critics, such as Norway coach Ståle Solbakken, have called it a "bad, bad, bad, bad, bad decision" that could harm the World Cup. Despite the backlash, U.S. coach Pochettino and star player Christian Pulisic defended Balogun, arguing there was no intent in the foul and worse fouls had gone unpunished in the tournament.
