Scandalous Folarin Balogun decision hammers home just how much 2026 World Cup has been tarnished by Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino
This opinion piece criticizes FIFA's integrity, specifically citing the controversial decision to allow Folarin Balogun to play for the USMNT despite a red card. The author argues that political influence and inconsistent officiating have tarnished the 2026 World Cup.
The World Cup was actually becoming somewhat enjoyable. After the almost complete removal of jeopardy from the group stage caused by the tournament's farcical format, the overdue start of knockout football has unsurprisingly provided us with some genuine excitement - so much so, in fact, that you've probably already forgotten how disgracefully Iran were treated by the United States. Or that referee Omar Artan - along with millions of other Africans - wasn't even allowed to attend.
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