[Anchor]
FIFA has handed a two-match suspension to England defender Quansah, who was sent off during the Round of 16. This decision stands in stark contrast to the treatment of U.S. player Balogun, who was allowed to play in the Round of 16 despite receiving a red card earlier, as his suspension was deferred.
Reporter Lee Jeong-Chan has the story.
[Reporter]
Quansah received a red card for a rough tackle in the 54th minute of the Round of 16 match against Mexico, with England leading 2-1.
Generally, a player who receives a red card is ineligible for the next match and may face additional disciplinary action if the foul is deemed serious. FIFA has confirmed a two-match suspension for Quansah.
This stands in contrast to the U.S. player Balogun, who also received a red card following a video assistant referee (VAR) review but was able to play in the Round of 16 after his suspension was deferred.
Following the revelation that U.S. President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of Balogun's suspension, some have jokingly suggested that England should have also utilized a "phone call opportunity" with President Trump.
[Thomas Tuchel / England National Team Manager: (What if Harry Kane, who has expressed favor for President Trump, asks him to make a call?) That is true. I think that could be a good starting point (for a solution).]
In the football community, the general consensus is that the two-match suspension for Quansah is justified.
Scott, a former British Premier League referee, explained the difference in the level of discipline between Balogun and Quansah based on the regulations.
He stated, "Regardless of the defender's intent, the degree of force and the potential for injury are taken into account," adding, "While Balogun's foul was not intense enough to warrant more than a warning, Quansah's tackle was powerful and directed above the opponent's ankle, making the ruling justified."
Consequently, Quansah will be unable to play in the quarterfinal match against Norway in two days, and even if England wins, he will remain sidelined through the semifinals.
(Video Editing: Lee Hong-myeong, Design: Kim Ye-ji)
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