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Belgian football body challenges reversal of Balogun’s World Cup suspension
Al Jazeera • • nation
Key Points:
- The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) vowed to challenge FIFA’s decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension, allowing him to play in the USA vs. Belgium World Cup round of 16 match.
- The RBFA accused FIFA of procedural breaches and unfair conduct, stating it would contest Balogun’s eligibility despite its appeal being declared inadmissible by FIFA’s Appeal Committee.
- The suspension reversal followed direct communication between US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, raising concerns about political interference in the tournament.
- Trump denied influencing the decision, claiming he only requested a review of the red card call, while Infantino stated he was not involved in the disciplinary ruling and was informed after the fact.
- Critics argue the controversy undermines the integrity of the USA team’s achievements, with calls to keep politics out of football and allow the team to succeed based on merit.
