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FIFA decision sparks controversy for US squad - Balogun
🇲🇾 Malaysia /Sports

FIFA decision sparks controversy for US squad - Balogun

From Utusan Malaysia · () Malay

Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Outcome reported
  • US forward Folarin Balogun expressed surprise and acknowledged controversy surrounding FIFA's decision to suspend his one-match ban for the 2026 World Cup.
  • Balogun received a red card on July 1, leading to an automatic suspension, but FIFA later suspended the ban for a probationary year.
  • The decision, reportedly influenced by a request from the US President, allows Balogun to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium, sparking debate about FIFA's disciplinary process.

US forward Folarin Balogun acknowledged the controversy surrounding FIFA's decision to suspend his one-match ban for the 2026 World Cup. He expressed happiness at rejoining the team but recognized the unusual nature of the ruling.

"I am happy to be back with the team, but when I think about it again, I know that decision will cause a lot of controversy," Balogun told CBS Mornings. "I can also see some anxiety among my teammates because this situation is very unique."

I am happy to be back with the team, but when I think about it again, I know that decision will cause a lot of controversy.

— Folarin BalogunBalogun commented on the FIFA decision to suspend his one-match ban.

The 25-year-old striker was shown a red card during the US's 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1. His boot made contact with the ankle of opponent Tarik Muharemovic, resulting in an automatic one-match suspension.

However, FIFA made a surprising decision days later, suspending the ban for a one-year probationary period. This move reportedly followed a request from US President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the decision. The ruling, based on Article 27 of FIFA's Disciplinary Code, allowed Balogun to participate in the Round of 16 match against Belgium, igniting heated debate about the transparency of the world football governing body's disciplinary procedures.

I can also see some anxiety among my teammates because this situation is very unique.

— Folarin BalogunBalogun described the reaction of his teammates to the unusual FIFA ruling.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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