FIFA has defended the reputation of World Cup referee Raphael Claus in rare pushback on comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who questioned his integrity for sending off Folarin Balogun. Trump suggested on Monday at the White House,

U.S. Men's National Team star Folarin Balogun has been at the center of a firestorm of attention over the past several days, after his massively successful start to the World Cup was stunted by a since-overturned red card suspension.

Trump reportedly called FIFA president Gianni Infantino after the red card, and Europe erupted, but the rule FIFA cited is not new or unprecedented.

Ever since being sent off, Folarin Balogun has done nothing wrong. But now he's been thrust into the heart of a World Cup circus

U.S. striker Falorin Balogun was in the starting lineup against Belgium after FIFA suspended his red card ban after President Trump asked for a review.

By Dan Catchpole SEATTLE, July 6 (Reuters) - After dominating the global football headlines for 24 hours, U.S. striker Folarin Balogun barely merited a mention in Monday's game against Belgium as the co-hosts were eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 16.

Just before the USMNT’s round of 16 game against Belgium, FIFA’s halting of Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension outraged the soccer community. Possible involvement of the American authorities, specifically Donald Trump,