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President Trump confirms role in FIFA reviewing, overturning Folarin Balogun red card: 'They made the right decision'
Yahoo Sports • • nation
Key Points:
- U.S. striker Folarin Balogun's red card from the match against Bosnia-Herzegovina was overturned, making him eligible for Monday's Round of 16 World Cup game against Belgium.
- President Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun's ban, claiming he only suggested a review and did not influence the decision.
- Infantino confirmed the call but emphasized FIFA's judicial bodies operate independently and that he respects their autonomous decisions.
- FIFA denied Belgium's appeal against the decision, upholding the overturning of Balogun's red card despite initial reports that red card suspensions were not subject to appeal.
- The red card was originally issued after Balogun stepped on a defender's ankle during the match, which under FIFA rules carried an automatic one-game suspension.
