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FIFA lifts US star striker Balogun’s red card suspension at World Cup after Trump calls Infantino
By RONALD BLUM and MICHELLE L. PRICE, Associated Press at ValleyCentral (KVEO/CBS4) - Sports
· July 6, 2026
· 1 min read
SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of American star forward Folarin Balogun, whose red-card suspension was lifted in a decision that allows him to play in a World Cup match against Belgium on Monday. Balogun, the American leader with three goals in the tournament, rec...
Key takeaway President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of American star forward Folarin Balogun, whose red-card suspension was lifted in a decision that allows him to play in a World Cup match against Belgium on Monday.
Why this matters in The McAllen
For McAllen residents who follow international soccer, the suspension of Folarin Balogun's one-game ban is a significant development, especially given the US team's upcoming match against Belgium. As the Rio Grande Valley is home to a diverse population with strong ties to both the US and international communities, interest in the World Cup is likely high. The fact that Balogun, the American leader with three goals, will be able to play in the crucial round of 16 match will undoubtedly be welcomed by local soccer fans. The Valley's own soccer enthusiasts will be watching closely to see how Balogun's participation impacts the team's performance, and how the US fares against a tough Belgian squad. With the World Cup capturing the attention of audiences worldwide, McAllen's soccer fans will be joining millions of others in cheering on their favorite teams and players.
About this story
Original reporting by ValleyCentral (KVEO/CBS4) - Sports . The McAllen surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit ValleyCentral (KVEO/CBS4) - Sports . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 6, 2026 ·
Source: ValleyCentral (KVEO/CBS4) - Sports ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump intervened on behalf of American star forward Folarin Balogun, whose red-card suspension was lifted in a decision that allows him to play in a World Cup match against Belgium on Monday. Balogun, the American leader with three goals in the tournament, rec...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 6, 2026 by ValleyCentral (KVEO/CBS4) - Sports and curated for The McAllen readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by RONALD BLUM and MICHELLE L. PRICE, Associated Press at ValleyCentral (KVEO/CBS4) - Sports. To learn more about how The McAllen selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The McAllen, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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