Norway coach: FIFA reversal after Trump call 'hurts' World Cup

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken criticized FIFA after the federation reversed the one-game suspension of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, calling it a “big mistake.” The decision came after Balogun was sent off following an instant replay review during Team USA’s 2-0 Round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday. Under FIFA rules, that red card triggered an automatic one-match ban, but FIFA later said its Disciplinary Committee delayed the suspension for a “probationary period of one year,” allowing Balogun to face Belgium in the Round of 16 on Monday at 8 p.m. EDT at Lumen Field in Seattle. Solbakken said the reversal could “hang over” the United States if it beats Belgium. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, though it remains unclear how much it influenced FIFA.