France Celebrates Olise's Semi-Final Availability After FIFA Rejects Card Appeal

France can breathe a collective sigh of relief as star winger Michael Olise is cleared to play in their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final clash, despite FIFA earlier rejecting an appeal to overturn his yellow card. Les Bleus secured their spot in the final four by defeating Morocco 2-0 in a thrilling quarter-final match on Thursday. Olise played in that decisive game without receiving another booking, meaning his previous yellow card has been wiped clean for the upcoming semi-final stage. The initial scare emerged after Olise received a contentious yellow card in France's Round of 16 victory against Paraguay on July 4, 2026, following an altercation with Matias Galarza that many, including the French Football Federation (FFF), felt was unfairly awarded. France's appeal, confirmed by coach Didier Deschamps on July 8, 2026, was dismissed by FIFA, leaving Olise on a disciplinary tightrope for the Morocco quarter-final. The FFF frustration was amplified by FIFA recent controversial decision to overturn a red card suspension for USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, which involved an intervention by former President Donald Trump. With Olise's yellow card now reset, he will be a key figure as France prepares for their semi-final match on July 14 against the winner of today's Spain vs. Belgium quarter-final. Olise has been a standout performer in the tournament, providing five assists so far, making his availability crucial for Deschamps' squad as they chase another World Cup title. The incident, while resolved for now, highlights ongoing debates around refereeing consistency and FIFA disciplinary processes in high-stakes international tournaments.