FIFA has canceled the one-match disqualification of US national team striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in the World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium. According to the Associated Press, citing sources, this was preceded by a personal phone call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, reports UNN.
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According to the agency, Trump contacted Infantino after Balogun received a red card in the match against the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. The footballer was automatically supposed to miss the next game, but FIFA's Disciplinary Committee decided to cancel the disqualification.
FIFA stated that instead of suspension, Balogun will be on probation for one year. This decision will allow the striker, who has already scored three goals at the current World Cup, to take the field in the game against Belgium.
Belgium outraged by FIFA's decision
The US national team welcomed the decision of the world football governing body.
We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are glad that Folarin Balogun has the right to compete. All our focus is on the round of 16 match against Belgium
At the same time, the Belgian Football Federation said they were "stunned" by FIFA's decision and are considering appealing it. Trump himself thanked FIFA on social media after the decision, writing: "Thank you FIFA for doing the right thing and correcting a great injustice!"