Folarin Balogun: USA Striker Says FIFA Ban Reversal Created World Cup Distraction

Folarin Balogun has admitted that FIFA’s decision to suspend his one-match World Cup ban created major controversy and became an unwanted distraction for the United States ahead of its knockout match against Belgium.

Speaking to CBS Mornings on Tuesday, the Monaco striker reflected publicly for the first time on FIFA’s decision to overturn his automatic suspension after his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Balogun said he initially welcomed the decision because it allowed him to return to the team. However, he quickly realized the ruling would generate widespread debate.

“My initial reaction was I was happy to be back in the team. But when I started to reflect, I knew it was going to cause a lot of controversy,” he said.

The 25-year-old added that the unusual situation also affected the atmosphere within the squad.

“I could almost see within my teammates a bit of nerves because it was something that’s so unique,” Balogun said.

The forward explained that he tried to ignore the growing public debate and focus on football. He admitted, however, that the constant attention made preparation more difficult.

Balogun received a straight red card during the United States’ 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after stepping on defender Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle. Under FIFA regulations, the dismissal carried an automatic one-match suspension.

FIFA later suspended the ban for a one-year probationary period after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the incident.

The decision drew criticism from Belgium’s football association, European football officials, former FIFA executives, and several former players. Critics argued that political intervention threatened the integrity of the FIFA World Cup and created a controversial precedent.

Balogun said the uncertainty created an emotional atmosphere inside the U.S. camp. After preparing to miss the quarterfinal, he switched to a supporting role during training before learning he could play.

“We found out on the team bus. Everybody was screaming and shouting,” he recalled.

Despite the controversy, Balogun said the squad remained focused after the initial excitement.

“We’re all professionals, so it wasn’t too difficult to move forward once we accepted that I’d be back in the team,” he said.

Balogun started against Belgium but could not prevent the United States from losing 4-1, ending the team’s FIFA World Cup campaign.

Despite the early exit, the Monaco striker enjoyed a strong tournament and finished with three goals for the United States.