President Trump Applauds FIFA’s Decision to Lift Balogun’s World Cup Suspension Ahead of Monday’s Pivotal Matchup vs Belgium

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON — FIFA has suspended the automatic one-match ban issued to United States striker Folarin Balogun following his red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina, making him eligible to play in Monday night’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 matchup against Belgium.

The decision was announced Sunday by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, which said the suspension of Balogun’s ban will remain on probation for one year under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The ruling allows the U.S. men’s national team to have one of its top attacking players available for the knockout match.

Balogun was sent off during the second half of the Americans’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina after a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic. The dismissal typically would have resulted in an automatic suspension for the next match.

ABC confirmed reports the White House made a call to FIFA after the U.S. win over Bosnia-Herzegovina last week to ask FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review Balogun’s red card.

“Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” President Trump posted on Truth Social.

U.S. Soccer welcomed the ruling, saying it was pleased Balogun would be eligible to compete and that the team’s focus remains on advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals.

The decision sparked controversy, however, with the Royal Belgian Football Association criticizing FIFA’s interpretation of its disciplinary rules and announcing it is exploring its options. Belgian officials argued the reversal conflicts with World Cup competition regulations that call for an automatic suspension following a red card.

U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino said he was not involved in the appeal process, explaining that his attention remained on preparing his team for Belgium while U.S. Soccer officials handled the matter.

The United States will face Belgium at 8 p.m. ET Monday in Seattle, looking to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.

Balogun’s availability provides a significant boost to the American attack after he scored the opening goal in the victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina before his controversial sending off.