Donald Trump intervenes as FIFA lifts Balogun's suspension before Belgium clash

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United States President Donald Trump personally intervened in Folarin Balogun’s FIFA World Cup 2026 suspension case by calling FIFA President Gianni Infantino and requesting a review of the striker’s automatic ban, according to Fox News.

According to a source close to the situation, Trump reached out to Infantino shortly after Balogun was dismissed from the pitch during the United States’ Round of 32 triumph against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Following the high-level discussion, FIFA re-evaluated the incident and officially cleared the 25-year-old attacker to participate in Monday’s Round of 16 match against Belgium.

The unexpected verdict was made public on Sunday by FIFA.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee stated, “By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year.”

Balogun was shown a straight red card in the 64th minute of the USMNT’s 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite the dismissal, the forward has been the focal point of the American frontline, netting three crucial goals over the course of the tournament.

Following the announcement, President Donald Trump took to his social media platform to celebrate the disciplinary reversal.

Writing on Truth Social, he posted, “Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President Donald J. Trump.”

Belgium protests overturn ahead of Round of 16 clash

The Belgian football federation has expressed opposition to how the disciplinary rules were applied, confirming that they are exploring all potential legal avenues now that Balogun has been deemed eligible for the knockout tie.

For US head coach Mauricio Pochettino, having the New York-born frontman back in the squad is a massive advantage. The United States is currently trying to secure a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since its historic run at the 2002 tournament in South Korea and Japan.

The US last locked horns with Belgium in the Round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. On that day, the European side ground out a thrilling 2-1 victory in extra time, despite an unforgettable, record-breaking 16-save display from US goalkeeper Tim Howard.

(With ANI inputs)

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