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Balogun suspension overturned ahead of World Cup match against Belgium

From CBS News · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • FIFA's disciplinary committee overturned a red card suspension for U.S. Men's National Team forward Folarin Balogun, making him eligible for the World Cup match against Belgium.
  • Balogun received the red card for a "serious foul" after colliding with a Bosnian defender, an action U.S. Soccer considered accidental and controversial.
  • The decision, which is typically not eligible for review, was met with relief by the team and praise from President Trump.

Lead U.S. Men's National Team scorer Folarin Balogun will be available for the World Cup match against Belgium after FIFA's disciplinary committee overturned a red card suspension. The decision allows the team to field its key attacker in the crucial knockout stage game.

Balogun was sent off during the United States' match against Bosnia and Herzegovina following a collision with a Bosnian defender. Referees deemed it a "serious foul" after a VAR review, with Balogun raking his cleats down the player's leg and landing on his ankle. The incident occurred in the second half of the match.

pleased

— U.S. SoccerExpressing satisfaction that Balogun will be able to compete in the match against Belgium.

The red card was controversial, as Balogun's actions appeared accidental to many observers, including players on the USMNT. Typically, red card suspensions are not eligible for review, making FIFA's reversal a significant and unusual development. U.S. Soccer expressed pleasure that Balogun can compete, stating they are "pleased" with the outcome.

While FIFA has not issued a statement explaining the decision, the overturning of the suspension was met with strong reactions. President Trump posted on social media, praising FIFA's decision as "what was right" and reversing "a great injustice." U.S. star Christian Pulisic told CBS News that Balogun and the rest of the team are "super happy" with the news, noting Balogun's "big smile."

just a big smile on his face and all of ours

— Christian PulisicDescribing the team's reaction to Balogun's eligibility for the upcoming match.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CBS News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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