USA manager Mauricio Pochettino has fully backed FIFA’s extraordinary decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic one-match ban, insisting the ruling upholds the principles of “morality and integrity” as co-organizers prepare for a blockbuster last-16 tie against Belgium at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The decision, which also prompted U.S. President Donald Trump to publicly thank FIFA, has become one of the most controversial topics of the tournament, with Belgium threatening to explore legal options and several coaches questioning the precedent it sets.
‘Everyone should celebrate’: Pochettino defends FIFA ruling
Ahead of Monday’s knockout clash, Pochettino welcomed FIFA’s move to bring Balogun on board after the forward received a controversial red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.“I think everyone who really cares about the sport and believes in ethics and integrity should celebrate this decision,” Pochettino told reporters.The former Argentina international believes the United States have had enough during their 2-0 win in the last 32, which saw Balogun sent off in the 64th minute following a VAR review.“We were punished enough against Bosnia and Herzegovina, playing with 10 men for 35 minutes after a completely unfair decision,” he said.Pochettino also said he was not surprised that President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino seeking a review of the incident.“I come from a culture in Argentina or Europe where football is a religion and it’s not just a religion,” Pochettino said. “If we keep going, keep going, maybe tomorrow you will find that this sport is magical, this sport is amazing, so powerful and can unite people and unite a country like ours.”
Referee Rafael Kraus shows U.S. player Folarin Balogun (right) a red card. (AP Photo)
Trump welcomes reversal; Belgian smokes
Trump reportedly called Infantino after the game against Bosnia to ask FIFA to review the red card given to Balogun, the U.S.’s leading scorer at the World Cup with three goals.Following FIFA’s announcement, Trump praised the governing body on social media.“Thank you FIFA for doing the right thing and reversing a huge injustice!” he wrote.FIFA said that in accordance with Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the suspension has been lifted and Balogun will undergo a one-year probation period. If he commits a similar offense during this period, the suspension will automatically take effect.The move appears to be the first time since the 1962 World Cup that a player sent off during a match has avoided an automatic ban.
Belgium questions the legality of the decision
The Royal Belgian Football Federation reacted angrily, saying it was “shocked” by FIFA’s ruling and questioning its legal basis.While acknowledging FIFA’s reliance on Article 27, the RBFA argued that Article 66.4 of the Disciplinary Code clearly provides for automatic suspension after a red card, noting that all other penalties at this World Cup result in a one-match ban.Belgium coach Rudi Garcia also mocked the timing of the decision.“I didn’t know in the FIFA offices that July 5th was April 1st in Europe,” Garcia quipped, comparing the ruling to an April Fool’s Day joke.The Belgian FA said it was exploring “all possible options” to protect “the fundamental principles of fair play”, while Norway coach Stoller Solbakken warned the ruling could set a dangerous precedent for future disciplinary decisions.
