Folarin Balogun, U.S. forward, faced a surprising decision as FIFA suspended his one-game ban. He is now eligible to play in the World Cup’s round of 16 against Belgium. This move was welcomed by President Donald Trump, who commended FIFA’s decision to reverse what he called an injustice.
Balogun had received a red card for an awkward incident involving Tarik Muharemović of Bosnia and Herzegovina during a 2-0 round of 32 win. A red card typically results in a one-game suspension, but players were informed of Balogun’s availability through social media posts during a bus ride to training.
Defender Chris Richards noted teammates’ initial skepticism, believing the news might be artificial intelligence interference. President Trump also praised FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has worked to develop close ties with Trump and even awarded him a FIFA Peace Prize.
Christian Pulisic, a U.S. team star, expressed relief regarding the decision, highlighting the lack of intent behind Balogun’s foul, and comparing it to worse fouls during the tournament.
The U.S. Soccer Federation was informed of the decision via a message from FIFA at 10:31 a.m. EDT. According to FIFA, Balogun’s suspension is postponed for a year, contingent upon his conduct. If he repeats similar infractions, the suspension will be enacted along with penalties for new offenses.
Balogun, who plays for Monaco and scored 13 Ligue 1 goals last season, has netted three goals in the tournament, tying Landon Donovan’s record from 2010. Balogun changed his national allegiance from England to the U.S. in 2023.
“He strikes fear into a lot of defenders,” Richards commented.
The U.S. hopes to advance to the quarterfinals, a feat last achieved in 2002. Previous round of 16 losses occurred against Ghana in 2010 and Belgium in 2014. The team did not qualify in 2018.
The USSF chose not to make Balogun available for comment, but he shared a post on social media showcasing himself with U.S. fans set to Michael Jackson’s “Bad.” Balogun had previously suggested that a yellow card would have been more appropriate.
FIFA’s decision considered Article 27 of disciplinary rules, noting the potential for suspending disciplinary measures and imposing probation. Past examples include deferred sanctions allowing Cristiano Ronaldo, Nicolás Otamendi, and Moisés Caicedo to participate in World Cup games despite prior infractions.
History showed FIFA has occasionally allowed players such as Brazil’s Garrincha to play in significant matches following disciplinary issues.
(AP Soccer Writer James Robson and AP Sports Writer Jim Vertuno contributed to this report.)