Folarin Balogun

Folarin Balogun had a breakout moment on June 12, 2026, at SoFi Stadium, scoring twice against Paraguay before 70,492 fans and an American television audience of nearly 19 million—the highest-rated USA men’s soccer match in history. He became the first American player to score two goals in a World Cup game since 1930, powering a 4-1 win. Born in New York and raised in London, Balogun chose the USA over Nigeria and has been vindicated: his pace, movement, and finishing established him as a legitimate top-flight striker at Monaco and later in the Premier League. The USA’s home advantage—with sold-out stadiums and patriotic fervor—fuels his game. At 24, Balogun has transformed from prospect to star in one match.