Star forward Folarin Balogun has been selected for the United States to start Tuesday’s World Cup Round of 16 against Belgium, just hours after FIFA rejected a request for approval from Europe in a dispute that has divided the world of sport.Balogun was slapped with a one-game suspension after receiving a straight red card for stepping on an opponent’s elbow during the Americans’ 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina. However, following a call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the governing body made a surprising decision to suspend the ban for one year, allowing the player to play.Back to the World and ShowsThe highly controversial decision sparked outrage across European football. European governing body UEFA launched a scathing attack on the decision, calling it “unprecedented, incomprehensible and unacceptable.” In an attempt to stop the player from playing, the Royal Belgian Football Association appealed for a further suspension. However, FIFA’s appeals committee suddenly rejected the request, saying that the Belgian organization does not have the right authority to challenge the decision of the advisory committee.Political drama spilled over into the streets of Seattle before it began. Angry Belgian fans took to Lumen Field chanting “FIFA Mafia” to protest what they see as unfair political interference. In an attempt to resolve the issue, Infantino said publicly that he had no involvement in the independent commission’s decision. The commission also fined Balogun $40,000, a penalty that can be imposed by the US Soccer Federation.Quarter-FinalsBalogun’s inclusion is a big boost for the competition, as his three goals lead the American team. A record is at hand for the United States team, which has never won back-to-back matches in World Cup history.The game offers a chance for revenge, as Belgium eliminated the Americans at the same time in 2014. The winner of the hard-fought tournament will go on to face Spain on Friday in Inglewood, California, in the final.