Trump-backed Balogun reprieve sparks FIFA crisis, but Belgium send US out of World Cup
Summary
FIFA suspended US striker Folarin Balogun's red-card ban after President Trump urged a review, sparking controversy and criticism from UEFA and others as Belgium defeated the US in the World Cup.
Key Points
- FIFA suspended the red-card ban of US striker Folarin Balogun after US President Donald Trump's intervention.
- The decision sparked outrage from UEFA, the Belgian Football Association, other national federations, and football figures.
- Balogun played in the match against Belgium, which the US lost 4-1, and FIFA rejected Belgium's appeal for his ineligibility.
- Critics, including former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and coaches, warned that political interference threatens football's integrity.
