President Donald Trump on Sunday thanked FIFA after the world football body suspended the red card ban on USA striker Folarin Balogun.
The decision means Balogun can now play in the USA’s Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle.
Recall that Balogun was shown a straight red card in the USA’s 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the last-32 after VAR ruled he stepped on defender Tarik Muharemovic.
Under FIFA rules, a straight red normally means an automatic one-game ban with no appeal.
On Sunday, FIFA said the ban will be “suspended for a probationary period of one year_ under Article 27 of its disciplinary code.
FIFA added: “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.”
Balogun has been key for the USA in the World Cup. He has scored 3 goals, including a brace in the opener against Paraguay. His absence would have been a big blow against Belgium.
Reacting to the development, Trump wrote on Truth Social: “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!”
U.S. Soccer also said it was “pleased” with FIFA’s decision and that the team’s focus is now on the Belgium game.
Trump Thanks FIFA as Balogun’s Red Card Ban is Suspended Ahead of Belgium Clash
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