Trump reacts as FIFA clears Balogun for Belgium clash
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The decision came after criticism from United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino and team captain Christian Pulisic, who both questioned the referee's decision following the match
United States President Donald Trump has praised FIFA after the football governing body suspended the one-match ban given to Folarin Balogun, making the striker available for the USA’s World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium.
Balogun had been expected to miss the knockout game after receiving a straight red card during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the previous round. The incident occurred after a challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic.
However, FIFA announced on Sunday that the suspension would not take immediate effect. Instead, the punishment has been suspended for a probation period of one year.
In a statement, FIFA said the decision was made under Article 27 of its disciplinary code. The organisation explained that if Balogun commits another offence of a similar nature during the probation period, the suspension will be enforced in addition to any new punishment.
The ruling means Balogun is now eligible to play against Belgium in the Round of 16.
Reacting to the development, Trump welcomed FIFA’s decision in a post on his Truth Social platform.
“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” the US President wrote.
Balogun’s red card had generated widespread debate after the match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card normally carries an automatic one-match suspension.
At the time, reports suggested that the suspension could not be appealed. However, later reports indicated that Balogun would be cleared to face Belgium, a position that was eventually confirmed by both FIFA and U.S. Soccer.
The decision came after criticism from United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino and team captain Christian Pulisic, who both questioned the referee’s decision following the match.
Balogun has been one of the United States’ key players at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His availability is expected to provide a major boost for the team ahead of their crucial knockout clash against Belgium.
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