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Belgium vows to defend football after FIFA overturns Balogun suspension
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Belgium has vowed to "defend football" following FIFA's decision to overturn the automatic one-match ban on US striker Folarin Balogun. This ruling, announced a day before the US faces Belgium in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, has drawn sharp criticism from Belgian officials, rival coaches, and prominent football figures. The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed astonishment, stating that FIFA's disciplinary code mandates an automatic suspension for a red card, as observed in all previous instances during this World Cup. The federation is exploring options to protect fair play and the legitimate rights of participating teams. Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia remarked that he did not realize July 5 was "April Fool's Day," asserting that his team would be defending football's ethics and integrity. Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois noted the squad's surprise at the timing but affirmed their focus remains on the match. England manager Thomas Tuchel questioned FIFA's handling, warning that overturning Balogun's suspension could create uncertainty for all teams. Former England captain Wayne Rooney called the ruling "an absolute disgrace," while former France star Thierry Henry suggested the late reversal likely impacted Belgium's preparations, despite believing Balogun never deserved a red card initially.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has launched an initiative to plant 10,000 economic trees across communities in her district. The project, titled “Growing Kogi Central, Building Our Future,” aims to promote environmental sustainability and address climate change impacts. It focuses on restoring degraded land, preventing soil erosion, improving biodiversity, strengthening food security, and creating economic opportunities for residents. The initiative includes planting species like mango, guava, orange, moringa, and neem, valued for their environmental, nutritional, medicinal, and commercial benefits. Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that this project is a strategic investment in the future of Kogi Central and aligns with global climate action efforts, emphasizing that tree planting is a practical solution for absorbing carbon dioxide, restoring ecosystems, and improving livelihoods. She urged community leaders and residents to take ownership of the initiative, highlighting that environmental sustainability and economic prosperity should go hand in hand.
US striker Folarin Balogun will be eligible to play in the World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium, despite receiving a straight red card in the previous game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. While a direct red card typically results in an automatic one-match suspension according to FIFA World Cup Regulations, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee utilized Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This article allows for the suspension of a disciplinary sanction's implementation for a probationary period. In Balogun's case, the one-match ban has been suspended for a one-year probationary period, meaning the red card still stands but the immediate suspension is not enforced. He will only serve the ban if he commits another similar disciplinary offense during this period. This decision has sparked controversy, with the Royal Belgian FA arguing that Article 27 conflicts with the automatic suspension rules in the World Cup Regulations, undermining sporting fairness. Former President Donald Trump reportedly lobbied FIFA to lift the ban. FIFA has previously used Article 27, citing a precedent with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Nigerian actress and media personality Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, stated on The How Far Podcast that she will never deny being a 'nepo baby'. She emphasized that acknowledging advantages from family connections does not diminish individual achievements. Otedola defined privilege as growing up with financial stability, education, and a supportive environment, extending beyond fame. She explained that nepotism, particularly in entertainment, involves receiving opportunities through family connections that others may not have. Otedola finds it surprising when individuals refuse to admit the role privilege plays in their success, noting it would be unfair for her to deny her own advantages. She stressed that recognizing privilege does not negate the effort put into building a career, stating she was given a 'leg up' and has made the most of it.