Folarin Balogun is “enjoying the stage” with USMNT

The 2026 World Cup is just ten days old but already some key storylines are starting to develop. There’s the incredible underdog triumph of Cabo Verde and the enduring brilliance of Lionel Messi, but the performances of the USMNT have been just as important so far this summer.

The United States have won both of their first two group stage games to tie up top spot in Group C. Striker Folarin Balogun has been a key part of that effort with two goals from his first two tournament appearances. On Monday he spoke to Fox about the experience of representing the US in a home world cup.

“I didn’t really have any expectations. I wanted to embrace it, it’s my first World Cup, so I wanted to just give it my best shot and take it all as it comes,” Balogun said.

The Monaco striker only chose to represent the US in 2023, having also been eligible to play for England and Nigeria. He was asked what made him decide to play for the United States and Balogun replied enthusiastically.

“Everything. I made the decision about three and a half years ago. The support I was getting from the fans really motivated me to make my decision. I think the ambition of the American people and the culture is something that really inspires me.”

“I’m enjoying the stage, it’s an opportunity to find a deeper motivation within myself.

Balogun prefers lone role

For most of his time with the national team Balogun has been deployed as a lone striker, typically with three attack-minded players behind him. However in the recent win over Australia, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino opted to field Balogun alongside Ricardo Pepi in a front two.

Asked about the difference between the two systems, Balogun revealed his preference: “To be honest, I prefer one. It’s something I’ve done growing up so it’s what I’m used to.”

“I feel like sometimes with two strikers you’re thinking the same, so you run into the same positions,” he explained. “But it can also benefit you if you’re playing against a back five, you know. The two strikers can occupy the defenders.”

Balogun has been one of the States’ top performers so far this summer but is unlikely to play against Türkiye in the final game of the group stage on Thursday. He has already picked up one yellow card and will receive a one-game suspension if he gets another later this week.

With the United States already guaranteed to top the group and Türkiye already eliminated, Balogun looks set to be given the game off to avoid a second booking and ensure that he is ready for the Round-of32 fixture.

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