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Norway coach Stale Solbakken strongly criticized FIFA after the suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun was lifted ahead of the Round of 16 match in the World Cup against Belgium.

Balogun had received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, and VAR confirmed the decision, leading to an automatic one-match suspension.

However, FIFA's disciplinary committee later changed the punishment to a suspended ban, making the striker available for the match against Belgium.

According to two sources close to the matter, Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the suspension. Commenting after Norway's win over Brazil, Solbakken said: "It is a big mistake by FIFA. It is a very, very, very, very, very bad decision, and it is not in the interest of sport. Balogun got a red card, VAR confirmed it was a red card, he was sent off and suspended for one match."

Solbakken argued that lifting the suspension would have lasting consequences if the US team advances further in the tournament. "If they beat Belgium, they will always have that little extra thing. If Balogun scores a goal or plays well, Belgium will be furious."

He added: "If they win, it will always be in the background. And what about the next red card? Will there be demands to overturn that too?"

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