FIFA SUSPENDS BALOGUN BAN; TRUMP THANKS GOVERNING BODY

FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's one-match ban on Sunday, permitting the United States striker to play in the World Cup last-16 match against Belgium. Balogun had received a straight red card during the USA's 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the previous round and faced an automatic suspension. FIFA cited Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which permits sanctions to be suspended under certain circumstances. The ban has been suspended for a probationary period of one year, meaning any similar offence during that period will result in immediate enforcement of the suspension alongside additional punishment.

United States President Donald Trump expressed approval of FIFA's decision via his Truth Social platform, stating the governing body had "done what was right" and reversed "a great injustice". Reports from AFP and Reuters claimed Trump had personally contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of the red card, though these reports remain unconfirmed. FIFA provided no detailed explanation for its decision beyond reference to Article 27. Balogun, aged 25, will now be available for manager Mauricio Pochettino's side as they pursue a quarter-final berth.

The Royal Belgian Football Association responded with criticism, describing FIFA's action as "astonishing" and noting that all other red cards shown at the World Cup had resulted in automatic suspension. Belgium argued the decision contradicted regulations communicated to all participating nations before the tournament and stated it was investigating potential options to protect the "legitimate rights" of all teams and "fundamental principles of fair play". Gary Neville, speaking to Sky Sports, also expressed opposition to FIFA's decision.