World Cup 2026: Joseph-Antoine Bell recalls the Pitroipa incident after Balogun’s red card is overturned

06.07.26 FT World Cup

USA

1

:

Belgium

4

FIFA’s decision to overturn the suspension of Folarin Balogun has sparked widespread controversy. The American striker was sent off on July 1, 2026, during the Round of 16 at the World Cup against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a match that ended 2-0, due to a dangerous tackle. He was later reinstated for the quarterfinals, amid numerous media reports suggesting pressure from President Donald Trump.

For Joseph-Antoine Bell, this precedent is not new. The legendary Cameroonian goalkeeper recalled a similar African story.

Balogun – Trump – Infantino: is this an unprecedented case in football? No! We must not deny Africa its innovations. In 2013, during the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, Burkina Faso reached the final but lost Jonathan Pitroipa in the semifinals after he was sent off with a red card. Following 'deliberations' between President Blaise Compaoré and Issa Hayatou, a decision was made. Pitroipa returned for the final.

A historical perspective from Bell, who concluded: “When Africa leads and others follow, it must be acknowledged and credit given where it’s due.”

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

Related teams and leagues

USA

Belgium

World Cup