In a curious twist that has left many in the football community scratching their heads, Folarin Balogun will take his place in the United States lineu...
In a curious twist that has left many in the football community scratching their heads, Folarin Balogun will take his place in the United States lineup for their World Cup last 16 showdown against Belgium. His one game suspension, handed down by Fifa for a contentious incident in the group stage, has been suspended. And who, of all people, has stepped into the limelight to offer his gratitude The former American President, Donald Trump.Let us be clear about the emotion here. For the United States, this is a massive boost. Balogun may not be the finished article just yet, but his ability to stretch a defence with intelligent runs and his clinical finishing in transitional play gives the Americans a genuine threat that Belgium's ageing backline will have to respect. His pace and directness are exactly the kind of weapon you want when facing a side like Belgium, who are notorious for their own transitional danger but equally known for defensive lapses when pressed high.But the involvement of a political figure in thanking Fifa for this reprieve is what truly makes this story sing. It is a rare, almost surreal, collision of the beautiful game and the world of power politics. Trump's personal intervention or public approval of the decision raises eyebrows, not least because it is unusual for a head of state to involve themselves so directly in the disciplinary machinations of a football federation. You have to wonder, was this purely a presidential good will gesture to a rising star on the national team, or is there a deeper calculation at playFor the American camp, the focus must now be on the pitch. Belgium will not park the bus, but they will look to control the tempo through Kevin De Bruyne and isolate the US backline. Balogun's ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play could be crucial in relieving pressure. If he can pin back the Belgian centre backs, the US midfield will have more room to breathe and push forward. One thing is certain: this is a moment where alleged political interference has handed the Americans a lifeline.Whatever your view on the off field drama, the sight of Balogun in the starting kit on match day adds a layer of intrigue to an already mouthwatering tie. The question remains, will he be able to justify the special treatment and deliver the moment that the US attack desperately needs Squeaky bum time is about to begin.
