Controversy as FIFA clears US star for last-16 showdown
FIFA has sensationally allowed US striker Folarin Balogun to play in Tuesday's World Cup last-16 tie against Belgium, despite a one-match ban for a red card – a decision that drew praise from President Donald Trump but sparked fury from pundits and the Belgian FA.
The intervention came after the White House called FIFA to request a review of the sending-off, and president Gianni Infantino's organisation used a discretionary rule to suspend the suspension. Trump, who received the first-ever FIFA peace prize from Infantino last year, posted on social media: "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!"
But Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville was scathing.
"It absolutely stinks, let's be really clear," Neville said on ITV. "If there's no process for it to be overturned and then somehow FIFA, from nowhere, decided to basically let a player play… I'd be absolutely raging if I was Belgium. Am I surprised? No, not with this lot."
Belgium 'astonished' and mulling action
The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) said it was "astonished" by the decision and is "investigating all potential options" to safeguard fair play.
"To safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport… the RBFA is investigating all potential options," a statement read.
Balogun, who has scored three goals at the tournament, was sent off in the USA's last-32 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina for a studs-up challenge. Of 12 red cards issued at this World Cup before Sunday, only Balogun's ban has been lifted.
The Ronaldo precedent
FIFA cited Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allows it to "fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure." A similar move was used last year to allow Cristiano Ronaldo to start this World Cup despite a three-game ban from qualifying. FIFA said Balogun's ban is suspended for one year, and will be re-applied if he commits a similar offence.
Quick Facts
Player: Folarin Balogun
World Cup goals: 3
Red card: vs Bosnia-Herzegovina (last 32)
FIFA rule used: Article 27 (suspension of sanction)
Trump involvement: White House called FIFA to review
Key Takeaways
- FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's one-match ban, making him available for the USA vs Belgium last-16 match.
- President Donald Trump thanked FIFA, while Gary Neville called the decision "absolutely stinking".
- Belgium's FA is exploring all options, alleging a breach of fair play.
- The move mirrors a similar suspension for Cristiano Ronaldo before the tournament.
- Balogun is the only player of 12 sent off at this World Cup to have a ban overturned.