Trump Hail USMNT Balogun Clearance Over ‘Great Injustice’

Donald Trump celebrated FIFA’s surprise reversal that cleared USMNT striker Folarin Balogun for the knockout clash against Belgium, labeling the decision a victory over what he called an “great injustice.” The former president posted his thanks on Truth Social after FIFA replaced the automatic one‑game suspension with a one‑year probationary period. Trump’s endorsement came amid a flurry of reports that the White House had personally intervened to ask FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review Balogun’s case.

Balogun’s red card unfolded in the 64th minute of the USMNT’s 2‑0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, after a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic. The video assistant referee (VAR) urged an on‑field review for possible serious foul play, leading referee Raphael Claus to upgrade the incident to a straight red. The dismissal came despite Balogun having already scored the opening goal, leaving the United States to finish the match with only ten men.

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino criticized the call, insisting there was no intent to injure the opponent and describing it as a normal football action. The decision sparked immediate backlash across social media, with many fans arguing the challenge was worthy of a yellow card at most. Pochettino’s comments added fuel to the growing debate over VAR’s role in high‑stakes matches.

Balogun’s Red Card Controversy

FIFA’s highly unusual move overturned Balogun’s automatic one‑match suspension, replacing it with a one‑year probationary period that keeps him eligible for the Round of 16 against Belgium. The governing body offered no detailed explanation, prompting questions about the consistency of its disciplinary framework. This case stands out as a rare instance where FIFA intervened after a red card had already been issued.

The decision immediately provoked a sharp response from the Royal Belgian Football Association, which declared itself “astonished” by the reversal. Belgium’s federation argued the move clashed with FIFA’s own disciplinary regulations and stated it was reviewing “all potential options” before its knockout clash with the United States. The Belgian camp views the clearance as a potential competitive disadvantage heading into the match.

Trump’s Direct Intervention

Multiple news outlets have linked Trump’s White House to the FIFA review. The Associated Press cited a person familiar with a call urging Infantino to examine Balogun’s suspension, while The New York Times reported Trump personally called the FIFA president. Journalist Ben Jacobs first disclosed that the White House had reached out to FIFA officials.

FIFA sources have publicly denied that political pressure swayed the disciplinary outcome, insisting the decision was made internally. The chorus of reports, however, fuels speculation that high‑profile interventions can affect even the world governing body’s rulings. Observers note that such involvement is uncommon in routine match disciplinary matters.

Belgium’s Furious Response

The Royal Belgian Football Association said it was “astonished” by FIFA’s reversal, claiming the decision conflicted with the governing body’s own disciplinary rules. The federation added that it was reviewing “all potential options” before the Red Devils’ knockout clash with the United States. This reaction underscores the competitive tension surrounding Balogun’s availability.

Belgian officials argue that the clearance could alter the balance of power in a match where depth and fitness are critical. Their continued review suggests the possibility of further actions if they perceive unfairness. The dispute adds a new layer of drama to the upcoming Round of 16 showdown.

What This Means for the Tournament

With Balogun now cleared, the USMNT can rely on one of its top performers in a high‑stakes match against Belgium. The striker’s presence also injects confidence into the American attack, especially after the chaotic red‑card incident. Meanwhile, Trump’s absence from the World Cup remains a talking point, even as he weighs a possible appearance at the July 19 final in New Jersey.

Trump has skipped several major events this tournament, despite his history of attending high‑profile gatherings like the Super Bowl and NBA Finals. Political strategist Federico de Jesus suggested Trump may be saving his appearance for the “main event” and is wary of potential boos after a hostile reception at the NBA Finals. The speculation adds intrigue to any eventual visit.

Infantino has indicated Trump is expected to attend the final, a promise that could bring renewed attention to the tournament’s conclusion. The combination of Balogun’s clearance and the political spotlight keeps the USMNT story in the headlines. Fans will watch both the on‑field drama and the off‑field developments unfold in the coming days.