US President Donald Trump has said he personally asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun's red card, arguing the USA striker's challenge did not deserve a sending-off. FIFA later suspended Balogun's automatic one-match ban, making him available for the United States' FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Trump insisted he only requested a review and did not pressure FIFA to change the outcome, calling the reversal the "right decision" that "saved the World Cup from a big stain." FIFA maintained its independent judicial bodies made the final ruling, despite criticism from Belgium and UEFA.

FIFA has rejected the Belgian Football Association's request to challenge Folarin Balogun's eligibility, confirming the USA striker can play in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Belgium. Balogun's automatic one-match suspension, imposed after his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, was earlier suspended for one year by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee. FIFA said Belgium had no legal standing to appeal because it was not a party to the original proceedings. The decision has sparked criticism, with Belgium questioning the process and keeping further legal options open. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has confirmed he asked FIFA to review Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension after the USA striker was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the FIFA World Cup 2026. FIFA later suspended the automatic ban for 12 months, making Balogun eligible for the USA's Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Trump said he believed the red card was unfair but insisted he only requested a review, not the final decision. The ruling has drawn strong criticism from UEFA, Belgium and England coach Thomas Tuchel, who warned it could undermine football's integrity. (PC: BBC)

Portugal and Spain are set to renew their fierce rivalry in one of the biggest matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. All eyes will be on Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who is expected to play his final World Cup and is one goal away from becoming the oldest player to score in consecutive World Cup knockout matches. Spain, unbeaten and yet to concede a goal in the tournament, enter the contest with rising star Lamine Yamal leading a talented young squad. The winner will secure a place in the quarter-finals. (PC: X)

Former England stars Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville have criticised FIFA after United States forward Folarin Balogun's red card and one-match suspension were overturned ahead of the FIFA World Cup clash with Belgium. The decision came after US President Donald Trump confirmed he had spoken to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review, although he denied pressuring the governing body. Rooney called the reversal "a disgrace", while Neville questioned FIFA's consistency and warned that political involvement could damage the credibility and integrity of the World Cup. The decision has sparked widespread debate across football.  

Norway striker Erling Haaland has shared his dream life after football, saying he hopes to settle on a farm with a tractor and cows. Speaking about his future, the Manchester City star said he enjoys the peace of rural life and wants to return to his hometown of Bryne after retirement. Haaland said farming has always appealed to him and that caring for animals would be his ideal way to spend life after football. The revelation offers fans a glimpse into the 25-year-old's life beyond the pitch, showing his love for nature and a simple lifestyle away from the spotlight.  

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken has criticised FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's one-match ban before the United States' FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium. Calling it "a bad, bad, bad, bad, bad decision," Solbakken said the ruling could hurt the tournament's credibility. Balogun was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina but was later cleared to play after FIFA suspended his ban. The decision followed reports that US President Donald Trump asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the case. The move has drawn criticism from several football officials, coaches and former players.

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the last of his career. Speaking before Portugal's Round of 16 match against Spain, the 41-year-old said, "It will be my last World Cup." He added that he wants to enjoy every moment and hopes the Spain match is not his final game. Ronaldo also dismissed criticism over his performances, saying he has already scored three goals in the tournament. The Portugal captain said he plays football because he loves the game. Portugal will face Spain for a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.

Belgium has appealed FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's one-match ban before the United States' FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash. Balogun was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina but was later cleared to play after FIFA suspended his ban for a one-year probation period. Belgium said the decision goes against the tournament rules and has asked FIFA to review the case. FIFA has allowed the appeal and an appeals committee member will hear it. A final decision could come before kickoff. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said the case has raised questions about the integrity of the tournament. (PC: Getty Images)

England reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after a thrilling 3-2 win over Mexico. Jude Bellingham scored twice before Harry Kane added a penalty. Mexico fought back, but England held on despite playing with 10 men after Jarell Quansah was sent off. After the match, midfielder Jordan Henderson was taken to hospital following a bad fall while celebrating with fans. England manager Thomas Tuchel said the injury looked serious. Henderson injured his wrist after jumping over an advertising board. England will now face Norway in the quarter-finals after Norway shocked Brazil with a 2-1 victory in the Round of 16. (PC: AP)