FIFA has lifted the red-card suspension on US striker Folarin Balogun. The move followed a phone call between US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Belgium and the DFB voice sharp criticism.
Balogun received a red card in the round-of-16 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. FIFA unexpectedly lifted the resulting suspension on Sunday. Infantino confirmed Trump’s call but stressed the independence of the FIFA disciplinary commission.
Belgium’s football association requested a review from the FIFA appeals commission. The request was ruled inadmissible because Belgium was not a party to the proceedings. The association announced it would challenge Balogun’s eligibility in Tuesday’s round-of-16 match in Seattle.
The DFB also demands an explanation from FIFA. Critics such as Mats Hummels called the episode a distortion of competition. Trump said he had only asked for a review because he did not think a foul had occurred.
The US national team names Balogun in the starting lineup for the round-of-16 match against Belgium. Kick-off is at 2 a.m. MESZ.
