The European football governing body (UEFA) criticized the decision of the world football governing body (FIFA) to suspend the suspension of American forward Folarin Balogun after receiving a red card in the World Cup. This came after US President Donald Trump contacted FIFA to request a review of the case, saying that FIFA had 'crossed a red line' and undermined the integrity of the game. UEFA said in a statement on Monday: 'We express our astonishment at this unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustified decision.' It added: 'When the finality of rulings is no longer guaranteed by their guardians, the integrity of the competition is at stake and the credibility of the tournament is undermined.'

Reuters contacted FIFA for comment. Balogun, who scored three goals for the United States team in the tournament, was sent off after a VAR review for a challenge on the ankle of defender Tarik Muharemovic during the win over Bosnia in the Round of 32.

Trump asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to reconsider the red card received by Balogun, which would have automatically suspended the player for the Round of 16 match on Tuesday against Belgium.

However, FIFA suspended the implementation of the suspension for a one-year probation period, without canceling the red card.

This shocking move highlighted FIFA's disciplinary procedures and provoked an angry reaction from Belgium. The Athletic newspaper reported that the Belgian federation contacted FIFA in writing to file a formal appeal on the matter.