President Donald Trump said on Monday that he asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the controversial red card issued to United States forward Folarin Balogun during the FIFA World Cup.

According to Trump, he did not pressure FIFA to overturn the referee’s decision but simply requested that officials take another look at the incident.

“I only asked for a review,” Trump said while speaking from the Oval Office. “I didn’t tell anyone what decision to make. I just didn’t believe it was a foul.”

The incident resulted in Balogun receiving a red card and an initial one-match suspension. However, FIFA later announced that the suspension had been lifted, making him available for the United States’ Round of 16 match against Belgium.

Trump described the collision as an accidental clash between two players running at full speed rather than intentional misconduct. He also stated that FIFA’s independent review panel reached the correct conclusion by allowing Balogun to return.

In addition, Trump questioned the referee’s handling of the match and suggested that journalists examine the official’s previous performances, though he did not provide evidence to support his remarks.

The decision to reinstate Balogun has generated significant debate among fans, players, and football analysts, with many discussing its potential impact on the tournament and the independence of FIFA’s disciplinary process.

This is a developing story, and additional information will be added as it becomes available.