FIFA shares new statement explaining why Folarin Balogun got a red card
Folarin Balogun is set to lead the attack for the USA in their big Round of 16 match against Belgium, and FIFA has just shared a new update about his ‘suspended’ red card after lots of people spoke out about it.
The USA is getting ready for one of their biggest-ever soccer games, facing Belgium, who are going through some changes. Even though Balogun got sent off in his last game, he’s been picked as the starting striker.
The 25-year-old has been in the spotlight after receiving a red card in their 2-0 win against Bosnia on July 2 at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium. He accidentally kicked an opponent’s calf with his studs, which led to the red card. This was a tough moment for the US team since Balogun has played really well during the World Cup.
But after some legal help from the White House and a phone call from Donald Trump, FIFA’s president Gianni Infantino decided to suspend Balogun’s one-match ban for a whole year, referring to Article 27 of their rules. This decision caused a lot of controversy. Experts like Wayne Rooney called it ‘an absolute disgrace,’ and Belgium’s football association has even appealed against it, calling it a joke.
With just an hour before the game, FIFA released a new statement defending their choice to suspend the ban, saying that they have the right to make these unusual decisions. Balogun will start alongside Christian Pulisic and Serginio Dest in attack. Despite calls for head coach Mauricio Pochettino to bench Balogun, he’s chosen his best team with their star striker ready to play, promising an exciting match.
According to TalkSport’s Ben Jacobs, FIFA said they didn’t break any rules and have full authority to pause disciplinary actions, as long as they aren’t about match-fixing. Their statement said the ban stays inactive unless Balogun makes a similar mistake again during the probation period.
Jacobs also mentioned that FIFA hasn’t given much explanation beyond having the ‘discretion’ to make this call.
This Round of 16 game looks set to be full of drama as the USA tries to shake up Belgium, whose top players like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel, and Thomas Meunier will start on the bench. Belgium might bring their experience in the second half, while the USA will play boldly in front of their home fans.