Daijiworld Media Network – Seattle

Seattle, Jul 6: FIFA has overturned the red card shown to United States striker Folarin Balogun, making him eligible for Tuesday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium in a decision that has triggered widespread criticism from former players and pundits.

Balogun, the United States' leading scorer in the tournament with three goals, was sent off in the 64th minute of his side's 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina after being adjudged to have stepped on defender Tarik Muharemovic.

Invoking Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, FIFA ruled that the one-match suspension would be deferred for a probationary period of one year, allowing Balogun to feature against Belgium. The governing body said the suspension would only be enforced if the striker committed a similar offence during the probationary period.

According to multiple media reports, the decision followed several calls from US President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. FIFA has not commented on the reports.

Former England striker Wayne Rooney strongly criticised the decision, calling it "an absolute disgrace" and questioning the fairness of suspending rather than enforcing the punishment.

Rooney said the move undermined the principles of sportsmanship and asked whether players from other teams would now expect similar treatment after receiving red cards.

Former England defender Gary Neville also criticised the ruling, saying that while he did not believe Balogun's challenge warranted a red card, FIFA should have followed a transparent review process rather than making an exceptional decision.

He argued that Belgium and other teams whose players had served suspensions after controversial dismissals had reason to feel aggrieved.

Former France international Thierry Henry agreed that the dismissal appeared harsh but questioned why FIFA took several days to reverse the decision, saying the delay affected Belgium's preparations for the knockout match.

The decision marks only the second time in FIFA World Cup history that a red card has been overturned. The first occurred in 1962 when Brazilian legend Garrincha was allowed to play in the World Cup final after his dismissal in the semi-final against Chile was rescinded.