FIFA has ignited a firestorm of debate and controversy after invoking Article 27 to suspend Folarin Balogun’s one-game ban, making the AS Monaco striker available for the United States’ World Cup last 16 clash against Belgium. The decision, which suspends the ban for one year rather than reversing it entirely, has drawn strong reactions from across the football world, including praise from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and outrage from the Belgian FA.
Balogun received the red card during the USA’s Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, following a challenge on Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic. Despite the sending off, Balogun had been a key figure for coach Mauricio Pochettino’s side, scoring three goals in three appearances, including one in their 2-0 victory over Bosnia.
A debated red card and unprecedented intervention
The red card itself was widely debated, with many observers, including Ibrahimovic, believing it did not warrant a sending-off. Speaking on American broadcaster FOX Sports, Ibrahimovic expressed his satisfaction with the outcome. He stated, “What I want to say is that I am happy for the US. Obviously, it’s a different situation, but first of all he should not get a red card. Then I am happy for the US team because the US team has been amazing, but Balo has been super amazing and with him it’s an extra force.”
Thierry Henry, a FOX Sports colleague, echoed Ibrahimovic’s sentiment regarding the red card, asserting that he did not believe it was a justifiable sending-off. Henry also highlighted the disruptive impact of the delayed decision, arguing that it significantly altered Belgium’s preparations for the upcoming fixture and that a ruling should have been made immediately after the USA’s win over Bosnia.
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Belgian FA considers legal action
The unprecedented nature of FIFA’s intervention has sparked accusations of corruption and a perceived lack of consistency, as other players sent off during a World Cup have not been afforded similar treatment. The decision has been met with particular fury from the Belgian camp. The Belgian FA has reportedly deemed the ruling “astonishing” and is now considering legal action.
Adding to the political dimension, US President Donald Trump applauded FIFA for “doing the right thing” and “reversing a great injustice.” Balogun is now set to feature for the USA in their crucial last 16 encounter with Belgium, scheduled for Tuesday at Seattle Stadium.
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