Trump 'Forces' FIFA To Overturn Balogun's Suspension; Belgium Goes Ballistic; 'Astonished By Ruling'

By Times Of India

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Politics and football have collided at the FIFA World Cup after FIFA suspended a one-match ban on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, making him eligible for the United States' Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Balogun had received an automatic one-match suspension after being sent off during the U.S. victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. However, according to The New York Times, President Donald Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino and asked him to review the disciplinary decision. Trump later thanked FIFA on Truth Social, writing, "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" The decision has sparked a major controversy. Belgium's football federation said it was "astonished" by FIFA's ruling and is exploring all possible options ahead of the knockout match. Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia also criticized the reversal, saying his team was defending the integrity of football. #trump #balogun #fifa #worldcup #fifaworldcup

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