
Balogun’s Controversial Return: How Politics Shaped a World Cup Decision
Folarin Balogun’s one‑game ban was lifted after a call from former President Donald Trump, sparking a global debate that culminated in a decisive match against Belgium.
Latest Slidescroller coverage in Soccer.

Folarin Balogun’s one‑game ban was lifted after a call from former President Donald Trump, sparking a global debate that culminated in a decisive match against Belgium.

Folarin Balogun discusses the fallout from FIFA’s suspension of his red‑card ban, the pressure of a last‑minute clearance, and the team’s clash with Belgium.

U.S. striker Folarin Balogun reflects on the controversy that surrounded his reinstatement for the crucial match against Belgium, the political pressure from President Donald Trump and the fallout that echoed through FIFA and UEFA.

U.S. forward Folarin Balogun learned mid‑match that his one‑game suspension had been lifted, allowing him to face Belgium after a political appeal from Donald Trump. The controversy, involving FIFA, UEFA and global attention, ended in a 4‑1 loss for the United States.
The U.S. Women’s National Team will host Spain in two fall friendlies, with tickets starting at $104, as both squads gear up for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semifinals, securing a spot in the championship match that will be held at MetLife Stadium near New York City.

A look at the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun’s red‑card, Donald Trump’s involvement, and the ripple effects that defined a pivotal World Cup match.

In a tightly contested semifinal in Arlington, Texas, Spain secured a 2-0 win over France, setting up a final clash with the winner of the other semifinal.

Didier Deschamps ends a 15‑year coaching reign after a World Cup victory, a historic dual triumph and a recent personal loss, as France prepares for six Nations League matches.
The U.S. Women’s National Team will host Spain in Washington, D.C., and Chester, Pennsylvania, in October, with tickets starting at $104, as both sides prepare for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
The U.S. Women’s National Team will face Spain in two highly anticipated friendlies this autumn, part of its preparation for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The U.S. Women's National Team will host Spain in back‑to‑back friendlies this October, using the games to fine‑tune for the 2027 tournament in Brazil.

A viral social media moment turns a modest western store into an international phenomenon, driving revenue growth and renewed interest in downtown Dallas.

Soccer fans gathered at Pitkin Plaza in downtown New Haven for a World Cup watch party despite high temperatures, sharing cooling strategies and hearing warnings about climate‑driven heat trends.

Spain advances to the World Cup final after a 2-0 victory over France, with goals from Oyarzabal and Porro, extending their unbeaten run to 37 matches.

Spain advanced to the World Cup final with a 2-0 victory over France, thanks to goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro and a pivotal performance by Lamine Yamal.
The festival, held on July 14 at Worcester Common, offered complimentary games and instruction for youth players, coinciding with Spain’s 2‑0 semi‑final victory over France, and featured remarks from local soccer leaders about expanding the game’s reach.

Oakland Roots SC has announced it will not return to the Oakland Coliseum for the 2027 season, citing operational and cost challenges, while outlining short‑term pop‑up options and a long‑term stadium proposal with the African American Sports and Entertainment Group.

Coach Kris Bertsch announced the addition of Glodi Konga to the 2026 men's soccer staff, highlighting his extensive coaching history and upcoming contributions.

A celebrated World Cup winner faces a setback as his commercial link with a Russian bookmaker triggers political backlash and resignations within the national set‑up.

The Explorers posted a 10-0-1 streak, fell to Litchfield in the sectional final, and saw head coach Brian Hoener named Small-Schools Coach of the Year.

A hybrid arrangement with USA Network and Fandango will bring all 300‑plus Bundesliga matches to American viewers, marking a strategic shift for the league and its new media partner Versant.

Spain secured a 2-0 win over France in the World Cup semi‑final, setting up a clash with Argentina in the final on Sunday.

Spain's 2-0 semi-final win over France was built on a penalty and a second-half strike, with coach Didier Deschamps admitting his side was technically inferior.