Folarin Balogun's ban is lifted by FIFA, allowing U.S. striker to play Belgium

Key Points:

• FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has delayed U.S. striker Folarin Balogun's one-game red card suspension for a probationary period of one year, allowing him to play in the upcoming World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium.
• The decision followed a phone call between President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with Trump expressing gratitude for what he called a reversal of a "great injustice."
• Balogun received the red card for stepping on a Bosnian defender's ankle during the Round of 32 match, a call that was initially not made by the referee but later recommended after video review, sparking controversy.
• The Belgian Football Federation criticized FIFA's unprecedented decision, calling it "astonishing" and is exploring options for recourse, while Belgian coach Rudi Garcia condemned the move as damaging to football's ethics and integrity.
• The U.S. team and players like Christian Pulisic welcomed the decision, emphasizing Balogun's positive attitude and the importance of his participation in a critical match that could send the U.S. to the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2002.