President Donald Trump has stepped into the middle of the Folarin Balogun red card issue during the World Cup, reaching out to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for a review of the controversial decision made during the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, according to sources. The specifics of Trump’s conversation with Infantino haven’t been disclosed, though both presidents have referred to Infantino as a “great sports leader” and a friend.
Balogun, who plays for the USMNT, has scored three goals in this World Cup, including one before his red card in that match. In an unexpected turn of events, he’s now been granted permission to play.
FIFA’s disciplinary regulations indicate that the judicial body has the power to suspend the implementation of any disciplinary measures. Notably, if a player under suspension commits another violation of a similar nature during a probationary period, the suspension can be revoked.
FIFA recently confirmed Balogun’s suspension would only be in effect during a one-year trial period. US Soccer expressed satisfaction with the disciplinary committee’s ruling and welcomed the fact that Balogun will be eligible for their match against Belgium, highlighting their commitment to the upcoming game in Seattle.
In the meantime, Belgium, having narrowly defeated Senegal in their previous match, expressed surprise over FIFA’s decision to allow Balogun to play. The Royal Belgian Football Association mentioned that it would consider all options to challenge this ruling.
USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino and his staff had been weighing potential alternatives for Balogun’s position, but now they may go into the game with their usual lineup against a strong Belgian side.
Trump and Infantino are slated to meet at the World Cup finals in New York/New Jersey on July 19, as the US team aims for further successes in the tournament. According to Infantino, similar to last year’s FIFA Club World Cup final, Trump will present the trophy to the winning team’s captain.
If the USMNT triumphs over Belgium, they’ll make history by becoming the second team in the country to reach the quarterfinals. Their next opponent will be the winner of the Portugal vs. Spain match, should they advance.
