S. Solbakken on FIFA's decision to lift F. Balogun's suspension: 'This will hurt the entire tournament'

2026-07-06 15:30 © ZUMAPRESS.com

FIFA made the decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's disqualification. 

The 25-year-old leader of the US national team received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina and as a result, had to miss the upcoming World Cup matches – the round of 16 against Belgium.

Norway's national team coach Stale Solbakken commented on this decision.

S. Solbakken: "This is a very big mistake on FIFA's part. Balogun received a red card, and VAR confirmed it. Therefore, you are suspended.

This is a very, very, very, very bad decision that will harm this World Cup.

I feel sorry for the US. If they win, everyone will only talk about that. This is not a good thing for our sport,” Stale Solbakken lamented regarding FIFA's decision.