On July 5, FIFA notified the U.S. Soccer Federation that Balogun's one-match suspension would be deferred for one year. If he does not commit a similar infraction during this period, the penalty will be lifted.
Balogun received a red card for stepping on an opponent's ankle during the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 2 at the San Francisco Bay Area stadium. He scored the opening goal, leading the U.S. to a 2-0 victory. However, players who receive red cards typically miss the next match, making his absence in the Belgium game likely.
With FIFA's decision, Balogun is now eligible to play in the Round of 16 match against Belgium on July 6 in Seattle. He is currently the top scorer for the U.S. team in the tournament, with three goals.
President Donald Trump welcomed FIFA's decision, stating on Truth Social, "Thank you to FIFA for doing the right thing and correcting a great injustice."
However, the decision may raise questions of fairness. The exceptional postponement of a suspension related to a red card, combined with the fact that the U.S. is a co-host of the tournament, could lead to allegations of favoritism.
The Belgian Football Association expressed surprise at FIFA's ruling and is considering its response, emphasizing that penalties for red cards should be applied consistently.
This decision also draws attention due to the close relationship between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and President Trump, who was awarded the newly established FIFA Peace Award in December of last year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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