Balogun Scores Twice as U.S. Advances at 2026 World Cup

Folarin Balogun has scored two goals and forced an own goal during the U.S. men's national team's first two victories at the 2026 World Cup. His runs and finishing have made him the clearest attacking threat for the side. He earned man of the match honors in both group-stage matches.

Monaco have held preliminary discussions with several European clubs, including Premier League teams, about a possible move for Balogun, according to The Athletic. Balogun was born in New York after his mother was unable to fly home late in her pregnancy. He is also eligible for England and Nigeria. He committed to the U.S. program in May 2023 after being recruited by the previous coaching staff.

Balogun said he finds it "annoying" to trail Messi, Mbappé and Haaland on the goal chart but added that he believes he has the potential to reach that level of consistency. If he scores once more in the tournament he would equal Landon Donovan's total for goals by an American at a modern World Cup. >"I need this because he shoots on me." — U.S. men's national team goalkeeper, June 24, 2026 (ESPN)