United States President Donald Trump has welcomed FIFA’s decision to suspend the one-match ban imposed on USA striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to feature in Monday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
Balogun had been sent off during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the Round of 32 after receiving a straight red card for stepping on defender Tarik Muharemovic.
On Sunday, FIFA announced that the implementation of the suspension had been put on hold for a one-year probationary period under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, making the forward immediately eligible for selection.
Reacting to the decision, Trump praised football’s governing body in a post on his Truth Social platform, describing the reversal as an act of justice.
“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!” the US president wrote.
Balogun has played a crucial role in the United States’ campaign at the tournament, and his availability is expected to strengthen the team ahead of the knockout encounter with Belgium.
The decision follows calls from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had urged FIFA to rescind the striker’s red card after the incident. FIFA said the suspension would remain deferred for a one-year probationary period in accordance with its disciplinary regulations.
