League: Ligue 1 Sport: Soccer Country: France Category: Scores & Results

Folarin Balogun hopes to excel for US at World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 9:56 PM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

Folarin Balogun hopes to excel for US at World Cup

Summary

Folarin Balogun prepares to lead the United States in its World Cup opener against Paraguay. The striker, raised in London to Nigerian parents, reflects on his journey to represent the US, recognizing the significance of the World Cup, particularly with home advantage. Balogun's transition to the US team follows a successful season at Monaco and his previous experience in youth soccer for both England and the US. Expectations are high for the co-hosts under coach Mauricio Pochettino, who has improved the team significantly.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Balogun is expected to start as the lone striker for the US.
•He joined the US team following a standout season at Monaco.
•The US faces Paraguay as co-hosts in the World Cup opener.
•Expectations are high for the team to advance past the quarter-finals.
•Balogun's background includes time at the Arsenal academy and loans to other clubs.

Latest Updates

9:56 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup is 'full circle' for London-raised US striker Balogun

What they're saying

"
Raised in London by Nigerian parents, Folarin Balogun didn't quite know what to expect when he signed up to play for the United States at the World Cup.Being able to perform on the biggest stage and give back to the fans, that's something I'm looking forward to doing," said Balogun, at the United States' World Cup training camp in Irvine, California.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Arsenal Tottenham Hotspur Ligue 1 Soccer