FIFA lifts US striker's ban, Donald Trump praises decision

FIFA has controversially lifted a one-match suspension on Folarin Balogun, the top scorer for the US national team, allowing him to play in their upcoming World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium. The striker had received a red card and subsequent ban during the previous match against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Instead of serving the suspension, Balogun will now be under a probationary period. FIFA stated that the ban would only be enforced if the 25-year-old commits another offense of similar nature and severity within the next year. This decision has been met with significant backlash from the Belgian football federation.

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astonished by FIFA's decision

Belgian officials expressed their astonishment at FIFA's ruling, deeming it a direct contradiction of the sport's established rules. In a strongly worded statement, they declared themselves "astonished by FIFA's decision" to clear Balogun. The federation emphasized that they are "examining all options" to ensure the "fundamental principles of fair play" are upheld in the sport.

This unusual move by FIFA echoes a rare precedent from the 1962 World Cup, where Brazilian player Garrincha was allowed to play in the final despite a red card after government intervention. Balogun's initial red card came after an unfortunate incident where he stepped on the ankle of a Bosnian defender. The decision's fairness is now under intense scrutiny, with critics suggesting it could distort the competition.

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examining all options to ensure the fundamental principles of fair play