Trump thanks FIFA for lifting Balogun's World Cup ban

U.S. President Donald Trump publicly thanked FIFA for overturning a one-match suspension for striker Folarin Balogun, enabling him to participate in the United States' World Cup last-16 match against Belgium.

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Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!

Balogun had received a straight red card during the U.S.'s 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina for stepping on an opponent's foot, an incident that automatically triggered a one-game ban under FIFA rules. Trump, posting on his Truth Social platform, hailed FIFA's decision to suspend the ban for a year as "doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!"

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should never have received a red card

Balogun has been a crucial player for the U.S. in the tournament, scoring three goals. His absence against Belgium would have been a significant blow. U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino had previously argued that Balogun should not have been sent off, stating the contact was unintentional and his player was merely "fighting for the ball."

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fighting for the ball

The FIFA disciplinary committee's decision to suspend the ban came after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had also called for the card to be rescinded. FIFA's statement indicated the suspension would be probationary for one year, meaning Balogun could face additional sanctions if he commits a similar offense during that period. This decision follows a precedent where FIFA suspended two matches of Cristiano Ronaldo's ban during World Cup qualifiers.

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something I have to just accept