United States President, Donald Trump, has welcomed FIFA’s decision to suspend the one-match ban imposed on Folarin Balogun, making him available for the country’s World Cup last-16 clash against Belgium.
The 25-year-old had been due to miss the knockout fixture after receiving a straight red card during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the last 32 following a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic.
However, FIFA announced on Sunday that the automatic suspension had been suspended for a probationary period of one year.
ALSO READ: World Cup: FIFA clears Balogun for USA clash against Belgium
FIFA suspends one-match ban
In a statement, football’s world governing body said, “In line with article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, the implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year.
“If Folarin Balogun commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement.”
The decision means Balogun is eligible to face Belgium in the Round of 16.
Trump welcomes decision
Reacting to the ruling on Balogun, Trump praised FIFA in a post on his Truth Social platform.
“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!”
The US President’s reaction came shortly after FIFA confirmed that Balogun’s suspension would not take immediate effect.
Controversial red card
Balogun’s dismissal sparked debate after the United States’ victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The former Arsenal striker was sent off after a challenge on Muharemovic, resulting in an automatic one-match suspension under FIFA regulations.
At the time, multiple FIFA officials reportedly told The Athletic that the suspension could not be appealed.
However, the same publication later reported that Balogun would be available for the Belgium fixture, a position subsequently confirmed by FIFA and U.S. Soccer.
The decision followed criticism of the red card from United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino and captain Christian Pulisic, who questioned the referee’s call immediately after the match.
Balogun has been a key player for the United States during the tournament and is now expected to feature in the knockout meeting with Belgium.
