Belgium Denied Appeal US Soccer Star's Eligibility; Trump Confirms FIFA Call

Key Points:

• FIFA denied an appeal by the Belgian Football Association regarding the repeal of USMNT player Folarin Balogun’s one-match suspension after his red card in the World Cup match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, stating Belgium has no standing to appeal.
• The Belgian FA has not received an explanation for the suspension repeal and is reportedly contesting Balogun’s eligibility with the U.S. Soccer Federation, with potential further actions under consideration.
• Former President Donald Trump confirmed he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun’s suspension, praising FIFA’s decision to overturn the ban and claiming his involvement influenced the outcome.
• UEFA strongly criticized FIFA’s decision to suspend Balogun’s red card suspension, calling it unprecedented, unjustifiable, and a threat to the integrity and fairness of the World Cup tournament.
• The controversy has sparked outrage in the soccer community, with Belgium exploring legal options and several prominent managers condemning FIFA’s move, which allows Balogun to play in the U.S. match against Belgium.