CORNERFLICK
Belgium head coach Rudy Garcia has criticised FIFA after the governing body suspended Folarin Balogun’s ban before the World Cup round-of-16 tie against the United States.
Balogun had been expected to miss the game after his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but FIFA allowed him to play. Garcia said the timing made the decision feel like a prank, adding that he only realised FIFA had acted on "5 July" as if it were April Fool’s Day in Europe.
He also pointed to a Belgian FA statement, saying the federation was defending more than its own position and speaking up for football, integrity and the sport’s principles. Garcia said it was the first time he had seen FIFA make such a call.
Despite his anger, Garcia said his focus remained on the match and that Balogun’s availability would not change Belgium’s approach.
He also said Belgium still had a few selection doubts and would assess training before deciding on the team.