Folarin Balogun has emerged as the U.S. men’s national team’s biggest revelation at this World Cup, delivering two goals in two victories, forcing an own goal with a run and cross, and earning man-of-the-match honors in both group-stage wins. If he scores one more time this tournament, he would be tied with Landon Donovan for most goals by an American at a modern World Cup.
U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese, who faces Balogun in training, illustrated the striker’s power by raising his taped hands and saying, “You see this? I need this because he shoots on me.” Freese’s comment underlined Balogun’s noted shot power and the physical demands he places on teammates in practice.
Balogun has also drawn transfer attention. The Athletic reported that his club, AS Monaco, held preliminary discussions with several European teams, including clubs from the Premier League. The speculation reflects a familiar pattern for forwards who shine at major international tournaments.
Balogun’s background has become part of his profile with U.S. Soccer: he was born in New York after his pregnant mother was not allowed to fly home because she was near her due date. He qualifies to play for England, where he was raised, and Nigeria, where his parents are from. He was heavily recruited by former U.S. coach Gregg Berhalter, made his allegiance official in 2023 and has since scored 11 goals in 29 international appearances.
Beyond scoring, Balogun’s versatility and work rate have been evident. He combined effectively with Ricardo Pepi when the U.S. used two strikers against Australia and has shown willingness to track back and challenge opponents when deployed as a lone forward. “He’s getting stuck into tackles, putting his body on the line,” Weston McKennie said. Balogun acknowledged the challenge of matching elite scorers, saying, “It’s annoying” to see players like Messi, Mbappé and Haaland at the top of the goals leaderboard, and added, “I’ve got the potential in me to do that.”
