@IrvingSwisher@AdamTheRed Is it possible that someone’s view on a sport could change over the years? I feel like a lot of people who used to hate soccer enjoy it now.
A critical element that the "rulebook purists" arguing Balogun deserved a red card are conveniently overlooking:
BALOGUN was the one who was challenged from behind.
The Bosnian player played *through* Balogun from behind and placed himself in the path of Balogun's natural step.
When he begins taking that step, Balogun has no idea the Bosnian player would even be in front of him. In that sense, you can't really even consider his move a "challenge." It was simply a step that incidentally landed in the same place the opponent's foot did.
In fact, the reason Balogun's step came down so hard is *because* the Bosnian player challenged into him and knocked him off balance.
This is not "reckless" or "excessive force" by any stretch of the imagination.
The red card was *obviously* unjustified from the outset. The only thing FIFA got wrong here is not immediately suspending the red card after the match.
@imYash07@EiFSoccer Uefa didn’t have a problem with Ronaldo playing but they do Balogun. It’s the hypocrisy. USA should be able to follow the precedent already set in this tournament.
FIFA does wrong/corrupt things on a pretty regular basis. Sometimes it works in your favor.
Another penalty Chelsea weren’t given. Khusanov realised he had lost the ball and used his knee to make contact and stop João Pedro. How was this not even checked by VAR
@FutbolCheIsea@Denchel96 Get over yourself. “We are finished” meanwhile we’re competing for a champions league spot, easy match up in FA Cup to reach the semi’s. Squad has flaws but finished is a gross over reaction
Current weather at Kahului (OGG Maui): heavy rain rolling in, mist hanging low, Southwest parked with runway lights glowing through the water on the tarmac. Typical Hawaiian downpour vibes. These tropical showers pass fast... usually clears up before you know it. Stay safe !