This was a fair decision by FIFA: Former USMNT player

Jonathan Bornstein, a former defender for the U.S. men’s national soccer team, has voiced his thoughts on FIFA’s unexpected choice to lift Balogun’s red card suspension, allowing him to take part in the essential Round of 16 World Cup match. Bornstein referred to this decision as “appropriate,” and pointed out a contrast with the backlash faced by Norway’s national team coach. The United States is set to compete against the top-ranked Belgium team.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been celebrated as a significant success, both on the field and for spectators. Fans have shared positive experiences about their visit to the U.S. and have appreciated the country’s hospitality. The facilities available across the nation have garnered significant praise for their quality and vibrant atmosphere.

Yet, every successful event seems to have its share of problems. One of the most controversial moments so far has been Balogun’s red card, issued during a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which was later deemed to come from a misapplication of VAR rules. FIFA decided to delay the one-match suspension, permitting him to play against Belgium.

This decision sparked outrage among European fans and commentators, but it hardly compared to the uproar surrounding Egypt’s national team players and coaches following Argentina’s unexpected 3-2 victory. The timing of that game’s outcome was particularly shocking.

Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, did not shy away from critiquing the officiating after the match, stating, “I don’t see any respect or fair play.” He lamented the disallowance of what he believed were valid penalty calls and felt the lack of VAR review was unjust. Despite leading 1-0 and nearing a second goal, which was ultimately scrubbed due to a prior foul, he expressed disappointment in the referee’s decisions.

He further commented on the unfair treatment, suggesting that the world champions received undue support, perhaps to keep a superstar like Messi in the competition.

Mostafa Zico, a forward on the Egyptian team, echoed this frustration, describing the officiating as “harsh.” He noted that the team had played well and felt that their momentum shifted dramatically after the referee’s calls turned against them. He questioned the reasoning behind canceling their second goal and expressed disbelief that they couldn’t retain that lead.

Zico even mentioned match-fixing as a troubling thought, emphasizing that it seemed like the referee’s decisions favored Argentina, especially after they were ahead by 2-0.

FIFA likely welcomes Messi and Argentina into the quarter-finals, as their presence boosts interest and viewership. Yet, the notion of the match being “fixed” remains contentious. While VAR’s ruling against Egypt’s second goal raises eyebrows, some contentious decisions were made in real-time and could have gone either way.

Ultimately, it’s crucial to recognize that some factors may have contributed to Egypt’s downfall in that match, but perhaps the larger issue lies in the inability to maintain focus on not conceding three goals in such a short period if they aimed for victory.