Balogun Cleared for U.S. vs Belgium After FIFA Review

Trump Intervenes in Balogun Red Card Decision

President Donald Trump confirmed he had contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino and asked the World Cup governing body to revisit Folarin Balogun’s suspension. Trump said, “All I did, I asked for a review, cause I didn’t think it was a foul,” after taking credit for the reversal. He illustrated his point with hypothetical scenarios involving Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Kane, suggesting that similar infractions could have “stained this incredible championship.” The president later questioned the referee’s past, remarking that “wasn’t so great” without elaborating.

Trump emphasized that he merely suggested a review and did not dictate the outcome. “I didn’t tell them what to do, I can’t tell them what to do…I think it was a committee that made the decision, and they made the right decision,” he added. The remarks highlight the unusual level of political involvement in a World Cup match incident.

Balogun’s Red Card Overturned, Set to Play Against Belgium

Balogun received a red card in the United States’ win over Bosnia‑Herzegovina while attempting a play for the ball against defender Tarik Muharemović. A video review showed the striker stepping on the defender’s ankle, prompting the dismissal. Under Article 10.5 of FIFA’s World Cup rules, the card automatically triggered a one‑game suspension.

The Athletic reported that FIFA officials had previously stated teams could not appeal red cards or resulting suspensions. After Trump’s request, the suspension was lifted, making Balogun available for Monday’s Round of 16 clash with Belgium.

FIFA’s Official Ruling

FIFA released a statement clarifying that “by operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year.” This provisional decision effectively restores Balogun to the U.S. squad for the upcoming match.

The governing body’s brief response did not detail the reasoning behind the change but confirmed the suspension was on hold pending further review.

What It Means for the U.S. and Belgium

Belgium’s coach noted that the absence of Balogun would have altered the tactical outlook for the U.S. side. “If they would have won the game with the player missing, it would have been a different feeling,” the president observed, underscoring the impact on both teams.

With Balogun now eligible, the U.S. enters the Round of 16 fully armed with its leading striker, while Belgium must adjust to the possibility of facing a fully fit opponent.