From Arsenal prospect to FIFA World Cup Star: Who is Folarin Balogun? Meet the US star who scored twice in match against Paraguay

The United States got its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign off to a flying start with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay, and the star of the night was striker Folarin Balogun. The 24-year-old forward scored two goals, including a stunning solo effort, to help the hosts secure all three points in their Group D opener.

Balogun's second goal was the standout moment of the match. After receiving a pass inside the penalty area, the striker used a series of clever feints and quick footwork to deceive his marker before firing an unstoppable shot into the top-left corner. The brilliant finish capped a dominant first-half display by the United States and underlined why Balogun is regarded as one of the team's most important attacking players.

Who is Folarin Balogun?

Born in the New York City borough of Brooklyn to Nigerian parents, Balogun moved to England when he was just two years old. Because of his background, he was eligible to represent three countries internationally — the United States, England, and Nigeria.


Balogun featured for both the United States and England at youth level, but much of his international development came with England's youth teams, including the England Under-21 squad. In 2023, however, he opted to switch his international allegiance to the United States before making a competitive senior appearance for England.

The move came after a determined recruitment effort by US Soccer, which reportedly hosted Balogun during a visit to Florida and sought to convince him that he could become a central figure in the country's long-term plans.

Balogun's club career began in the academy of Arsenal FC, where he rose through the youth ranks and established himself as one of the club's brightest prospects. However, limited first-team opportunities led to loan spells, including one at Middlesbrough FC.

His breakthrough arrived in France. A loan move to Stade de Reims allowed him to showcase his goalscoring ability, and his performances eventually earned him a high-profile transfer to AS Monaco.

In Ligue 1, Balogun emerged as one of the league's most dangerous forwards, scoring 19 goals in a season and cementing his reputation as a prolific striker.

A Key Figure for the USA

Since formally switching to the United States in 2023, Balogun has become a crucial part of the national team setup. His first goal for the US came in the CONCACAF Nations League final victory over Canada, and he has continued to develop into the team's leading attacking threat.

Against Paraguay, he once again demonstrated why American fans were so eager to see him choose the Stars and Stripes. With two goals in a World Cup opener and a memorable individual performance, Balogun has already announced himself as one of the players to watch at FIFA World Cup 2026.

As the tournament progresses, the Brooklyn-born striker will be expected to play a pivotal role in the United States' hopes of making a deep run on home soil.