FIFA rescinds Balogun red card, Trump thanks on X | OneFootball

FIFA has rescinded the red card shown to Folarin Balogun against Bosnia, clearing the United States striker to face Belgium in the World Cup last 16.

Balogun had been sent off in the round of 32 for a heavy challenge that bent an opponent's ankle and risked serious injury. Only Mauricio Pochettino lightly questioned it, arguing there was no malice in the tackle.

FIFA said in a statement on Sunday afternoon that, under Article 27 of the Disciplinary Procedure Code, Balogun's automatic suspension is suspended for one year on a probationary basis.

The United States meet Belgium overnight Monday to Tuesday, following Spain's game against Portugal in Dallas in the day's early slot.

It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino will present Trump with the FIFA Peace Award.

The U-turn shocked much of the football world but was warmly received in the United States camp. Trump thanked FIFA on X, calling it the right decision that reversed a major injustice.

The winner of Spain v Portugal will face the winner of United States v Belgium in the quarter-finals.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo