World Cup
Balogun's rise: why the US striker matters for Belgium
In the United States' World Cup campaign, 25‑year‑old striker Folarin Balogun has already netted three goals, making him the tournament's top scorer for his nation and forcing Belgium to prepare for a forward who has scored 19 league goals this season for AS Monaco.
Since 2022, Balogun has been a regular in French Ligue 1, first on loan at Stade Reims from Arsenal. In 2023 AS Monaco secured his services for €30 million.
Jordan Teze praised his teammate, saying, “I think Balogun has greatly improved in his finishing; he is more efficient, which is very important for his position.” He added that “his ability to get behind the defence and play in open spaces shows he uses his qualities optimally.”
Balogun scored in eight consecutive league matches, bringing his season tally to 19 goals for Monaco. The streak underscores his role as the club’s primary attacking threat.
Uefa warns Fifa over World Cup suspension chaos after Balogun decision
At the World Cup, the 25‑year‑old has already netted three goals, including two in the United States’ 4‑1 opening win over Paraguay. He also scored against Turkey before being rested after the United States secured qualification. Statistically, Balogun wins only 34 percent of his duels and, at 1.79 m, is not the tallest striker. Critics note occasional sloppiness in combination play, with the ball sometimes slipping from his foot. His performances have attracted links to Champions League winners Paris Saint‑Germain and several Premier League clubs, though he is not compared with the likes of Erling Haaland, Harry Kane or Kylian Mbappé. A presidential intervention by Donald Trump allowed Balogun to start despite receiving a red card, sparking worldwide controversy. The decision also pushes PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi onto the bench, as Balogun partners with fellow PSV player Sergiño Dest in the squad.