Integrity of World Cup questioned as Trump, FIFA defend actions surrounding Balogun suspension | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

The World Cup’s integrity faced major scrutiny on a chaotic Monday after FIFA moved to overturn the suspension of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun for the Round of 16 match vs Belgium. The controversy followed a phone call Trump made last week to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, arguing Balogun’s red card suspension should not have stood. FIFA cleared Balogun to play; he started and was substituted in the second minute of stoppage time as the United States fell 4-1. The decision was seen as the first time since 1962 that a World Cup punishment was suspended during the tournament. UEFA said FIFA “crossed a red line,” calling the disciplinary committee’s ruling unprecedented and unjustifiable. Infantino denied involvement, while Trump said the red card was a “horrible” call and claimed he pushed for a review. Belgium’s federation challenged the player’s eligibility, but FIFA’s appeals committee dismissed the case less than eight hours before kickoff in Seattle.