FIFA Allows U.S. Forward Folarin Balogun to Play in World Cup Round of 16

Folarin Balogun celebrates after scoring the first goal during the World Cup match between the U.S. and Bosnia on July 2 in Santa Clara, California. [Photo=AP]

International soccer governing body FIFA has suspended the one-match ban for U.S. forward Folarin Balogun of AS Monaco. Following his red card in the previous match, his participation in the Round of 16 against Belgium was initially in doubt, but the suspension has been postponed, allowing him to play.
On July 5, FIFA notified the U.S. Soccer Federation that Balogun's one-match suspension would be deferred for one year. If he does not commit a similar infraction during this period, the penalty will be lifted.
Balogun received a red card for stepping on an opponent's ankle during the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 2 at the San Francisco Bay Area stadium. He scored the opening goal, leading the U.S. to a 2-0 victory. However, players who receive red cards typically miss the next match, making his absence in the Belgium game likely.
With FIFA's decision, Balogun is now eligible to play in the Round of 16 match against Belgium on July 6 in Seattle. He is currently the top scorer for the U.S. team in the tournament, with three goals.
President Donald Trump welcomed FIFA's decision, stating on Truth Social, "Thank you to FIFA for doing the right thing and correcting a great injustice."
However, the decision may raise questions of fairness. The exceptional postponement of a suspension related to a red card, combined with the fact that the U.S. is a co-host of the tournament, could lead to allegations of favoritism.
The Belgian Football Association expressed surprise at FIFA's ruling and is considering its response, emphasizing that penalties for red cards should be applied consistently.
This decision also draws attention due to the close relationship between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and President Trump, who was awarded the newly established FIFA Peace Award in December of last year.

* This article has been translated by AI.

AJP