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FIFA lifts US player Balogun’s red card suspension at World Cup after Trump calls Infantino
By Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 5, 2026
· 4 min read
U.S. President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of American star forward Folarin Balogun, whose suspension was lifted in a decision that allows him to play in a World Cup match against Belgium on Monday.Balogun, the American leader with three goals, received a red card for stepping awkwardly on ...
Key takeaway Balogun, the American leader with three goals, received a red card for stepping awkwardly on the right ankle of Tarik Muharemović of Bosnia and Herzegovina in a 2-0 round of 32 win on Wednesday.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
San Antonio soccer fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Folarin Balogun's suspension has been lifted, allowing him to play in the crucial World Cup match against Belgium. This decision has significant implications for the US team's chances of advancing in the tournament. With Balogun's impressive record of three goals in the World Cup so far, his presence on the field is crucial for the team's success. As the city's soccer enthusiasts gather to watch the match, they will be eagerly awaiting Balogun's performance, hoping that he can lead the team to victory. The suspension's lift is also a testament to the power of advocacy, with President Donald Trump and other prominent figures weighing in on the decision. Now, San Antonio fans can focus on cheering on their team, with Balogun back in the lineup, as they take on Belgium in the round of 16.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 5, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? U.S. President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of American star forward Folarin Balogun, whose suspension was lifted in a decision that allows him to play in a World Cup match against Belgium on Monday.Balogun, the American leader with three goals, received a red card for stepping awkwardly on ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 5, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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