Belgium Questions FIFA over Balogun Suspension Reversal

Belgian politicians and football fans have criticised FIFA ahead of Monday's World Cup round-of-16 match against the United States after the governing body overturned the suspension of American forward Folarin Balogun.

The controversy centres on FIFA's decision to lift Balogun's suspension following a red card. The reversal came after US President Donald Trump reportedly asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to reconsider the case.

Maxime Prévot, Belgium's deputy prime minister, said that if a phone call from the US president had indeed influenced the decision, it would represent a serious breach of the principles of fair play and sporting integrity.

US Ambassador to Belgium Bill White denied that Trump had interfered in FIFA's decision-making. According to White, the president congratulated FIFA only after the governing body had reached its decision.

Despite the controversy, some Belgian supporters believe the incident will provide additional motivation as the national team seeks to reach the World Cup quarterfinals.

(Reuters, bak)