US Soccer Forward Balogun Says Trump-Backed Red Card Reversal Hurt Team at World Cup

US national team forward Folarin Balogun acknowledged the controversy surrounding the unprecedented decision to overturn his red card suspension during the World Cup. Balogun received a red card in the round of 32 match against Bosnia, but FIFA's disciplinary committee controversially rescinded his automatic one-game ban, allowing him to play in the round of 16, where the US lost to Belgium and was eliminated.

Balogun admitted he anticipated the backlash and was aware of the mental toll the incident had on his teammates. He described the situation as unique and difficult, noting the pressure and distractions leading up to the knockout match. Despite the turmoil, he said his teammates supported him throughout.

The incident sparked a major scandal after US President Donald Trump publicly admitted to intervening on Balogun's behalf and for the host nation, the US. Human rights group FairSquare filed a formal complaint with the International Olympic Committee, accusing FIFA President Gianni Infantino of violating political neutrality rules through his contacts with Trump.

Balogun maintained that the original red card for his tackle on Bosnian player Tarik Moharmovic was unjustified, calling it a shocking and unintentional incident that should not have resulted in a red card. FIFA has yet to provide an official explanation for the rare reversal of the suspension. The controversy overshadowed the US team's World Cup campaign and added pressure during a critical stage of the tournament.