US Forward’s Ban Suspended After Trump Intervention

US national team forward Folarin Balogun will be able to play in the World Cup round of 16 against Belgium after FIFA suspended his automatic one-match ban following a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Several media outlets reported that US President Donald Trump had intervened in the matter, speaking with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and asking him to review the case. Trump later welcomed FIFA’s decision, calling it the reversal of “a great injustice”.

Balogun is the US team’s leading scorer at the tournament with three goals. His teammates said they initially thought reports of his return were fake.

The Royal Belgian Football Association sharply criticized the decision and said it was examining all available options. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said his country was defending not only its own team but the principles of football.

The US will try to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.

(Reuters, mja)