The New York Times, citing three people familiar with the matter, reports
President Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino on July 1 asking a review
of the red-card suspension of U.S. leading scorer Balogun after he was sent off
for stamping in the U.S. 2-0 win over Bosnia in the round of 32. On July 5 FIFA
said its disciplinary committee found Balogun in breach of Articles 14 and 66
and imposed a one-match ban but invoked Article 27 to suspend that ban for one
year, making him eligible for Monday’s match against Belgium — the first time
since 1962 FIFA has allowed a player originally due to be suspended to play.
Trump welcomed the decision on social media but did not disclose the call or
claim credit.
