The Belgian soccer federation (RBFA) is demanding an explanation from FIFA regarding its decision to allow U.S. Men's National Team striker Folarin Balogun to play in the World Cup despite receiving a red card in a previous match. Balogun was given a red card for stepping awkwardly on the right ankle of Tarik Muharemović of Bosnia-Herzegovina during a 2-0 round of 32 win, which normally triggers an automatic one-game suspension.

FIFA announced on Sunday that the suspension had been lifted for the round of 16 match, an unprecedented move since it appeared to be the first time since 1962 that a red card during a World Cup did not result in a suspension. This reversal has drawn praise from President Trump and outrage from the Belgian team.

President Trump said he saw the play that led to Balogun's red card and spoke directly with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, requesting a review. Trump stated in the Oval Office on Monday that Balogun's move "didn't constitute a foul or an infraction." He also criticized the referee, calling him "a little bit suspect" based on his past decisions, though he admitted he initially did not understand the meaning of the red card.

Meanwhile, the Belgian federation said it has not received FIFA's official decision or any explanation regarding the matter. They learned of FIFA's move through media reports and sent a letter requesting a copy of the decision and an explanation of the process. According to the RBFA, FIFA responded by treating the letter as an appeal, appointing a judge, and giving the RBFA only a few hours to complete that appeal without providing any further information. The RBFA accused FIFA of creating an appeal that it immediately ensured would be declared inadmissible while refusing to respond to their legitimate requests.

Belgium is set to face the United States later Monday for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Sources