League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Folarin Balogun earns praise from Wayne Rooney and Olivier Giroud

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 11:02 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Folarin Balogun earns praise from Wayne Rooney and Olivier Giroud

Summary

Folarin Balogun received accolades from Wayne Rooney and Olivier Giroud following the USMNT's 2-0 victory over Australia on June 19, 2026. Balogun did not score but won Man of the Match for his pivotal role in generating an own goal by Cameron Burgess. His performance during the World Cup has drawn attention for his pace and directness, contributing to his club's success at Monaco, where he scored 19 goals this season. Balogun’s continued strong displays suggest he may attract major transfer interest if he maintains this level throughout the tournament.

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By the Numbers

•USMNT won 2-0 against Australia on June 19, 2026.
•Folarin Balogun assisted in generating an own goal.
•He was awarded Man of the Match despite no goals.
•Balogun scored two goals against Paraguay previously.
•Rooney and Giroud praised his skill and movement.

Latest Updates

11:02 PMYahoo Sports — Wayne Rooney and Olivier Giroud heap high praise on USA star man Folarin Balogun

What they're saying

"
Folarin Balogun did not score in the USMNT’s 2-0 win over Australia, but his influence was still clear. He helped generate the move that ended with Cameron Burgess’ own goal and won the Man of the Match award.
— Yahoo Sports

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FIFA World Cup Soccer