FIFA Suspends Ban, Allows Folarin Balogun to Play in World Cup Knockout Match

FIFA unexpectedly lifted the one-match ban on U.S. men’s national team forward Folarin Balogun on Sunday. This decision allows the star striker to play in Monday’s World Cup knockout match against Belgium. The reversal drew instant praise from President Donald Trump.

The governing body’s action overturned the expected suspension following Balogun’s straight red card in the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday. Typically, FIFA regulations impose a mandatory suspension after a direct red card, with limited appeal options.

“In line with article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year,” FIFA stated. “If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.”

Trump quickly responded on Truth Social, saying: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” Newsweek reached out to FIFA and the White House.

Impact on the U.S. Team

Balogun’s availability is crucial for the U.S. team as he has been a key player throughout the tournament. The 25-year-old has consistently contributed to the team’s success, scoring twice against Paraguay and finding the net again against Bosnia before being sent off.

Without Balogun, head coach Mauricio Pochettino was likely to consider either Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright, or an adjusted setup around Christian Pulisic. With Balogun back, the U.S. retains one of its most potent attackers.

Pulisic expressed his relief, stating, “Obviously for us it gives us a boost.” Defender Chris Richards shared that players learned of the news during travel, initially unsure if it was accurate. “We ultimately found out on social media,” Richards noted.

Red Card Incident Explained

The controversy began during Wednesday’s match against Bosnia when Balogun pursued a loose ball near the sideline, colliding with Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic. Initially, referee Raphael Claus did not issue a red card. However, after a video review, Claus decided Balogun had committed serious foul play, leading to the dismissal.

The decision faced immediate criticism. Pochettino commented, “For me? Never a red card.” He felt Balogun’s actions were accidental. Pulisic agreed, calling the punishment harsh and saying the team regretted Balogun’s potential absence.

FIFA’s decision to reverse the ban surprised many as expectations were that Balogun would miss the match against Belgium. While unexpected, similar instances have occurred, such as relief given to Nicolás Otamendi, Moisés Caicedo, and Cristiano Ronaldo under FIFA’s disciplinary framework.

Trump’s vocal approval added to the conversation. Some speculated whether political pressure influenced FIFA, given the reversal’s uncommon nature. However, there is no evidence suggesting political involvement. Neither FIFA nor U.S. Soccer implied any external influence.

Looking Ahead

With Balogun cleared to play, the spotlight returns to the matchup against Belgium in Seattle. A win secures the U.S. a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.