Folarin Balogun red card controversy takes fresh twist ahead of USA-Belgium game

Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleFifa controversially suspended the one-match ban on USA striker Folarin Balogun, making him available for the crucial round of 16 fixture against Belgium on Monday night, despite his earlier direct red card. The suspension was granted under Article 27 FDC, which allows for a probationary period of one year, a decision that immediately sparked widespread debate and strong opposition from the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA). The RBFA formally lodged an appeal with Fifa, which was granted, according to The Athletic, with both federations asked to submit arguments just hours before the scheduled kick-off, though a ruling before the match was not guaranteed. Reports suggested political intervention, with Donald Trump reportedly contacting Fifa president Gianni Infantino to request a review of the matter, and later praising the decision on Truth Social. The controversy led to differing reactions from the teams, with US Soccer accepting the decision, while Belgium coach Rudi Garcia expressed disbelief, stating they were “defending football”, and US coach Mauricio Pochettino defended Fifa's ruling. In fullBelgium ‘set to appeal Fifa’s decision to lift Folarin Balogun’s World Cup ban’ hours before clash with USAMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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