Trump's red card call stirs political storm around World Cup

World Cup drama around the main theme—Trump’s red-card call—has escalated into a political storm over Folarin Balogun’s World Cup eligibility. After appealing a suspension issued for a red card in the U.S.’s previous match, the president prompted FIFA to reverse a one-game ban, allowing the US forward to play Belgium in Monday’s knockout game in Seattle. FIFA president Gianni Infantino discussed the issue in a call with Trump, according to the report, fueling speculation about ties between the U.S. leader and FIFA’s leadership. Belgium’s federation said the process contravened FIFA regulations and prejudiced fair play, while UEFA criticized the approach as undermining rule certainty. The situation raises questions about tournament integrity and the perception of political interference.