Folarin Balogun Speaks Out on Overturned Red Card Controversy
US striker Folarin Balogun shares his thoughts on the overturned red card, stating he accepted both the initial decision and the subsequent reversal.
US national team striker Folarin Balogun has spoken out about the contentious red card situation that put his World Cup participation in jeopardy. He shared his thoughts with Football Tweet.
'When I was given the red card, I accepted the decision. And when I was allowed to play, I accepted that too,' he said. 'I don't have much to say about it. I congratulated the Belgium team, that's all. Rudi Garcia told me that this situation wouldn't overshadow my World Cup, and he encouraged me to stay positive. I think this is a wake-up call for me, so I need to gather my thoughts first. Then, when the time comes, I'll be able to talk about it in more detail.'
Balogun was sent off in the round of 16 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina (2:0) for a foul on defender Tarik Muharemovic. The American player was found to have kicked his opponent in the back of the leg with his studs. On July 5, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee temporarily suspended the disciplinary action against Balogun.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, FIFA made this decision after a call from the White House to the organization's leader, Gianni Infantino. US President Donald Trump confirmed that he spoke with Infantino about the matter and asked for the disciplinary decision to be reviewed.
Belgium's national team formally complained about the decision. However, on Monday, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee rejected the country's football federation's appeal. As a result, Balogun was allowed to play in the round of 8 match against Belgium. The Belgians won the match 4:1, which took place on the night of July 7, Moscow time.
The World Cup is being held in the US, Canada, and Mexico, and the tournament will conclude on July 19.