Trump Lobbied FIFA to Clear Balogun for USMNT World Cup Debut
Folarin Balogun was cleared to play for the US against Belgium after Trump reportedly asked FIFA to review his suspension.
Here's a wild one. Folarin Balogun — the striker who had a suspension hanging over his head — got the green light from FIFA to suit up for the United States Men's National Team at the World Cup against Belgium. That clearance didn't come out of nowhere.
Reports say President Trump personally asked FIFA to review Balogun's game suspension. Whether you love the politics or hate them, the result is the same: Balogun is on the pitch. That's a significant intervention at the highest level of international soccer governance, and FIFA actually moved on it.
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Balogun's availability is a genuine boost for the USMNT heading into what shapes up as a tough Belgium matchup. The forward had been in limbo, and his suspension status was a real question mark for the squad's attacking options. Now that cloud is lifted, expect him to factor into the starting lineup conversation immediately.
This one will generate debate well beyond the 90 minutes. A sitting US president leaning on a global sports body to influence player eligibility is the kind of story that doesn't fade quietly. Watch how FIFA handles the optics going forward — and watch Balogun to see if he justifies the effort.
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