Troy Carico: Trump's FIFA phone call was masterful misdirection |...

Troy Carico: Trump's FIFA phone call was masterful misdirection centers on commentary arguing that political pressure influenced a rule adjustment after the U.S. eliminated from the 2026 World Cup. The piece claims the U.S. lost 4-1 to Belgium and says Folarin Balogun received a harsh red card in a prior match versus Bosnia, which would normally trigger an automatic one-game ban. It then alleges that President Trump called FIFA head Gianni Infantino, after which FIFA altered its approach using a clause described as rarely seen, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium. The article frames the episode as “misdirection,” asserting Europe’s focus on the overturned decision overlooked the broader outcome. It references Belgium’s federation and UEFA as being astonished or reacting with rulebook emphasis. However, the account is written as opinion and does not provide additional verifiable details beyond what it narrates.