U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun will be eligible to play in the World Cup Round of 16 against Belgium despite receiving a red card in the previous match, according to a FIFA disciplinary decision confirmed on Sunday. The ruling, based on Article 27 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, allows Balogun to avoid a one-year suspension if he does not commit a similar offense during the tournament. The decision, initially reported by The Athletic, has drawn attention from U.S. President Donald Trump, who praised FIFA on his Truth Social platform.
Why did FIFA overturn Balogun’s red card?
FIFA’s decision to suspend Balogun’s one-year ban under Article 27 marks an unusual move in the World Cup. The 25-year-old forward received a red card in the U.S. team’s 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina after a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic. However, the governing body ruled that the suspension could be placed on “probation” if Balogun refrains from further disciplinary violations during the tournament.
The U.S. Soccer Federation did not immediately respond to requests for comment. However, coach Mauricio Pochettino defended Balogun’s actions, stating, “For me, that is never a red card. That was never intentional.”
What does this mean for the U.S. team?
Balogun, a critical component of the attack alongside Christian Pulisic, is available for Tuesday’s match against Belgium in Seattle’s Lumen Field, which is a significant boost for the Americans, who advanced to the Round of 16 as co-hosts. Pochettino confirmed he can use his best team.
Belgium has no foreseeable absences. The match, scheduled for 2:00 a.m. (ARD and MagentaTV), will be broadcast on ARD and MagentaTV.
How did Trump react to the decision?
U.S. President Donald Trump publicly thanked FIFA for “correcting a great injustice” in a post on his Truth Social platform. The message, signed “President DONALD J. TRUMP,” read: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what’s right and righting a great injustice.”
Trump, 80, has not attended any World Cup matches in person but is expected to be present at the final on July 19 in East Rutherford, New York.
What are the implications of FIFA’s ruling?
The use of Article 27 to suspend a ban rather than enforce it immediately is a novum in this tournament.
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