UEFA slams FIFA's decision to suspend Balogun's ban following 'Trump's call'

UEFA has strongly reacted to FIFA's decision to suspend the automatic one-match ban for US forward Folarin Balogun in the World Cup knockout stage. The European football governing body has termed the decision "unprecedented" and "irrational."

Balogun was shown a straight red card on July 1 against Bosnia and Herzegovina after VAR review for placing his foot on the back of defender Tarik Muharemovic. Under normal rules, he would have been automatically suspended for one match.

However, FIFA later announced that Balogun's one-match ban had been suspended for one year under Article 27 of its disciplinary code, allowing him to play in the last-16 match against Belgium.

UEFA strongly criticised the decision, stating in a statement that the one-match suspension following a red card is a fundamental rule of football. Creating an exception for one player in an ongoing tournament would question the transparency and credibility of the competition.

The organisation further said such a decision would set a controversial precedent for the future. Other players in similar situations could also demand the same benefits, which could have a negative impact on the fair conduct of the competition.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump thanked FIFA on social media, claiming they had made the "right decision." According to US media ABC, Trump had called FIFA President Gianni Infantino last week to request a reconsideration of Balogun's red card.

The Belgian Football Federation has also expressed surprise at the decision and is considering possible legal and formal steps against FIFA's ruling.

The US and Belgium are scheduled to face off in the World Cup last-16 match on Monday night Bangladesh time, with the winner advancing to the quarter-finals.