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Folarin Balogun shines with two goals in USMNT's World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 4:37 AM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Folarin Balogun shines with two goals in USMNT's World Cup opener
Summary

Folarin Balogun scored two goals during the U.S. Men's National Team’s 4-1 victory over Paraguay on June 16 at SoFi Stadium. Balogun became the first American to score multiple goals in a World Cup match since 1930. His performance reflects his ongoing success at the club level with 14 goals in 19 appearances since February. The USMNT will face Australia next on June 23 in Seattle, looking to maintain their attacking momentum.

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By the Numbers
  • •Balogun has increased his international goals to 11 in 28 matches.
  • •His scoring performance came in the team's World Cup opener.
  • •USMNT will play Australia next on June 23.
  • •Balogun credits team cohesion and coach Mauricio Pochettino for success.
  • •He displayed both finishing ability and work rate in the match.
Latest Updates
  • 10:06 PMYahoo Sports — Christian Pulisic’s verdict on Folarin Balogun as new USMNT star is born at 2026 World Cup
  • 4:37 AMYahoo Sports — Folarin Balogun is the USMNT's breakout World Cup star — and a world-class menace up front
What they're saying
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Folarin Balogun is developing into the next superstar of American soccer at the 2026 World Cup. Balogun scored twice in the USMNT’s 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their first game of the tournament last week.

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Since joining the national team three years ago, Balogun has injected a world-class striker's menace into the U.S. attack — something that was lacking at the 2022 World Cup.

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