Belgium coach mocks FIFA's decision on US player Balogun

Belgium's coach, Rudi García, reacted with thinly veiled sarcasm to FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's red card ban, allowing the U.S. forward to play against Belgium in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage. "I didn't know July 5 had become April Fools' Day," the French coach quipped during a pre-match press conference. García strongly backed the Royal Belgian Football Association's statement, which criticized FIFA's Disciplinary Committee. He argued that the resolution contradicts the automatic nature of suspensions following a red card, calling it an unprecedented decision in World Cup history.

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I didn't know July 5 had become April Fools' Day.

Balogun was initially set to miss one match due to his expulsion against Bosnia-Herzegovina. However, FIFA placed the suspension under a one-year probationary period, making him eligible to face Belgium. García conveyed his displeasure, stating, "We defend the integrity of football." He emphasized that this was the first time such a decision had been made in the history of the World Cup, suggesting a potential erosion of established rules.

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We defend the integrity of football.

Despite the controversy and his team's frustration, García insisted that Balogun's presence would not disrupt Belgium's strategy. "It doesn't change anything for my planning," he stated, focusing on his own team's preparation. "I focus on my team, regardless of the United States' starting lineup. I focus on my team and on victory to reach the quarterfinals." When pressed further on the Balogun case, the Belgian coach concluded the discussion, urging reporters to concentrate on football-related matters: "Don't waste time talking about this. We want to focus on sporting issues. I am the coach of the Belgian team. If you have questions about football, we answer them. For the rest, please go where it belongs."

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It doesn't change anything for my planning.