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President Donald Trump Confirms What Everyone Suspected in Case of Suspended Folarin Balogun at World Cup

What everyone had already assumed, President Donald Trump of the United States has now personally confirmed. He directly intervened in the case surrounding the suspended American footballer at the World Cup. Folarin Balogun was expected to be suspended against Belgium in the Round of 16 after a red card, but his suspension was suddenly made conditional by FIFA.
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President Trump has confirmed discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding American footballer Folarin Balogun's red card. This was announced during a press conference. Balogun's suspension, following his red card, was subsequently commuted by FIFA to a conditional penalty, allowing the American to participate in the Round of 16 match against Belgium.

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The striker is not just any player for the host nation. He has already scored three goals in the previous four matches, making him a crucial figure in the squad. Belgium was understandably dismayed that, despite his red card, he is seemingly cleared to play in the Round of 16, scheduled for Tuesday night at 2:00 AM Dutch time in Seattle. The matter is far from settled, as the Royal Belgian Football Association (KBVB) intends to 'formally dispute' Balogun's eligibility.

Reputable international media outlets have reported over the past 24 hours that Trump's intervention may have been a decisive factor in FIFA's and Gianni Infantino's decision. The two are known to be close friends. Last year, Infantino created a new peace prize and immediately awarded it to the controversial American president, who has been embroiled in political conflicts with Iran and threatened to acquire Greenland.

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