France have formally requested that FIFA overturn Michael Olise's yellow card following an incident in their World Cup win over Paraguay. The French Football Federation (FFF) launched the appeal after replays showed Olise only grabbed Matias Galarza's shirt, not his face as the Paraguayan player reacted.
Incident and Appeal Details
Olise was booked during the match after an altercation with Galarza, who fell holding his face. However, video evidence indicated minimal contact. According to ESPN, the FFF believes the yellow card should be rescinded. The booking could impact France's campaign: if Olise receives another yellow in the quarter-final against Morocco, he would be suspended for a potential semi-final.
Precedent from Balogun Case
France's appeal follows FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's red card for a year, allowing the USA striker to play in their round of 16 match against Belgium. Balogun had been sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but FIFA's independent commission reviewed the incident. The USA lost 4-1 to Belgium, but the controversy dominated pre-match discussion. U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino about the red card, while Bosnia called the U-turn “disgraceful.” Belgium issued angry statements, and England boss Thomas Tuchel said Balogun should not have been sent off but questioned the process. Tuchel also suggested yellow cards for Olise and Declan Rice should be removed.
England Also Considering Appeal
The Football Association is considering an appeal for Jarell Quansah's red card against Mexico, which could see him banned for England's quarter-final against Norway. Declan Rice, Nico O'Reilly, and Marc Guehi are at risk of suspension if booked in that match. Jordan Henderson is already ruled out for the tournament after a freak arm injury requiring surgery.
