The USMNT is facing widespread criticism ahead of their World Cup knockout tie against Belgium over Folarin Balogun, but some fans are suggesting it is they who are getting the short end of the stick.
That’s all down to the man who has been appointed to referee this crucial round of 16 tie.
While much of the media and footballing world are honed in on the shady nature of Donald Trump’s efforts to rectify the ban of their star striker, which involved a phone call to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, some are arguing that the heritage of the referee for the Belgium game is a bigger issue.
Referee for USA vs Belgium has Bosnian heritage
Mauricio Pochettino’s side dispatched Bosnia and Herzegovina comfortably in the first knockout round, emerging as 2-0 victors despite going down to ten men just after the hour mark.
It’s fair to say there is some animosity there. Bosnians have highlighted that the alleged US government interference is grounds for disqualification from the tournament under Articles 2 & 15 of FIFA’s regulations.
Maybe that’s why many of a US persuasion are concerned about referee Adham Makhadmeh’s appointment for the Belgium clash.
As BH Live revealed, Makhadmeh holds a Bosnian passport, born to a Jordanian father and Bosnian mother. His parents met while his father was studying in the capital, Sarajevo.
FIFA takes neutrality in officiating appointments very seriously, and have strict guidelines that make it so there can be no national connection, to avoid conflicts of interest.
That makes this appointment fine by law, but there is naturally some concern over his selection, given that Bosnia were ousted by the US just last week.
This story won’t get the same traction or widespread reaction as the Balogun controversy, but it will be on the minds of many inside the Seattle Stadium. Still, maybe not something to dwell on too much. If anything, the US need to make this as uncontroversial a clash as they can after the events of the last few days.
READ MORE:
Bosnia football account says USMNT deserve World Cup disqualification over Folarin Balogun
‘I made them do it’ – Donald Trump takes credit for FIFA decision to overturn Folarin Balogun ban
FIFA’s Balogun crisis just got ‘considerably worse’ as Gianni Infantino facing calls to resign
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
