What to know after FIFA lifts suspension of U.S. star Folarin Balogun
Summary
FIFA has allowed U.S. soccer player Folarin Balogun to play despite a red card that usually causes a suspension. This decision came after President Donald Trump contacted FIFA's president, and it means Balogun can play in the important match against Belgium, with a chance to reach the World Cup quarterfinals.Key Facts
- Folarin Balogun, a U.S. player born in New York and raised in London, leads the U.S. team with three goals in the World Cup.
- Balogun received a red card for stepping on an opponent's ankle in a round of 32 match against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
- Normally, a red card results in a one-game suspension, but FIFA lifted Balogun’s suspension citing a rarely used rule.
- President Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino before FIFA's decision to lift the suspension.
- FIFA said its disciplinary committee acted independently based on rules and facts but did not explain why they used this exception.
- Balogun’s case is the first since 1962 where a player sent off in a World Cup match was allowed to play the next game.
- U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino faces challenges replacing Balogun if the suspension stayed because of his unique skills.
- President Trump publicly thanked FIFA for reversing what he called a "great injustice" after the ban was lifted.
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