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Belgium criticizes FIFA over Balogun red card suspension amid World Cup tensions

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 8:55 AM

Last updated Jul 6, 2026

Belgium criticizes FIFA over Balogun red card suspension amid World Cup tensions

Summary

Belgium's soccer federation expressed its astonishment at FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's red card ahead of the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Belgium. The Belgian body stated it is exploring options to defend teams' rights and fair play principles, emphasizing the need for integrity in the sport. Coach Rudi Garcia criticized the timing of the decision, asserting that their match would be about defending football's ethics. Other teams, including England, have also raised concerns about the potential implications of FIFA's choice regarding Balogun, with manager Thomas Tuchel questioning the process behind overturning such a decision. In addition, former players like Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry have condemned FIFA's handling of the situation.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Belgium's soccer body is exploring all options regarding FIFA's decision.
•Rudi Garcia stated the match is about defending the integrity of football.
•England's Thomas Tuchel voiced concerns over the decision's implications.
•FIFA's suspension of Balogun has faced scrutiny from various soccer figures.
•The match is set for July 6, 2026.

Latest Updates

8:55 AMYahoo Sports — Belgium Vows To ‘Defend Football’ As FIFA Draws Criticism Over Balogun Red Card Suspension And Trump Call

What they're saying

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The Belgian soccer body said it’s exploring “all potential options” to safeguard the “legitimate rights” of all teams at the World Cup and the principles of “fair play.”
— Yahoo Sports

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