QtrendsFIFA lifts Balogun ban after Trump intervention
FIFA has stunned the soccer world by suspending Folarin Balogun's red card ban, allowing the US striker to play against Belgium in the World Cup on Monday. The decision came after President Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino, sparking accusations of political interference. Critics including Gary Neville and Belgian officials have condemned the move. Trump later thanked FIFA on social media, while the controversy has intensified scrutiny of FIFA's independence.
Erling Haaland scored twice in the dying minutes to knock five-time World Cup champion Brazil out of the tournament, sending Norway into the quarterfinals for the first time in their history. The 2-1 victory stunned the football world as Brazil, one of the heavy favorites, was eliminated in the round of 16. Haaland's late masterclass has been widely celebrated as one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 World Cup.
England's World Cup round of 16 match against Mexico has been disrupted by severe weather, with a storm delaying player arrivals and forcing officials to move the kick-off forward. Mexican fans have also been blasting horns outside the team hotel to disrupt England players' sleep. The unusual pre-match antics have added tension to what is already a high-stakes knockout encounter.
Naomi Osaka delivered a dominant performance to overpower top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka and reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals. The victory marks a significant milestone for Osaka, who has struggled on grass courts in previous years. Sabalenka, the world No. 1 and a heavy favorite, had no answer for Osaka's power and precision throughout the match.