Pochettino celebrates FIFA's Balogun ban reversal, unaware of Trump's thanks

FIFA's decision to overturn a red card for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun has sparked relief for coach Mauricio Pochettino and anger from Belgium's coach, Rudi Garcia. Balogun was sent off in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina for stepping on an opponent's ankle, a call Pochettino deemed "unjust."

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My reaction is like everyone else's. I love this sport and I trust its ethical integrity. We celebrate the decision. 99% of people agree that it was an unjust red card.

Pochettino expressed his satisfaction with FIFA's reversal, stating, "The 99% of the people agree that it was an unjust red card." He noted that the team had already suffered enough by playing with 10 men for 30 minutes against Bosnia. Pochettino also mentioned he learned of the decision just before training and was unaware of a thank-you message from U.S. President Donald Trump.

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I know and love Rudi. He is a great coach and person. We were punished enough against Bosnia by having to play with 10 men for 30 minutes.

President Trump publicly thanked FIFA for its decision, calling it "the right thing to do and reverse a great injustice." Reports indicate the White House contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the red card. FIFA explained its decision was made in accordance with Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, suspending the match ban.

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I found out today before training.