World Cup The Americans entered the tournament under pressure. In the last preparation matches, they recorded less positive results that raised doubts about their ability to advance past the group stage. However, the first game showed a completely different face of coach Mauricio Pochettino’s team, with a powerful 4-1 victory over Paraguay. The United States resolved the match practically in the first half. The scoreboard was opened in the seventh minute with an own goal from Paraguayan defender Bobadilla, and Folarin Balogun scored twice shortly after. The forward, who was born in New York—by coincidence, as his Nigerian mother was too far along in her pregnancy to travel—grew up in London and represented England at youth levels, becoming the first player to score two goals in the 2026 World Cup. Balogun has one of the most interesting stories in American football. After standing out at Arsenal’s academy, he shone during his loan at Reims in France and later transferred to Monaco. The English and Americans fought for his international future, with the USA ‘seducing’ him with trips to Florida and front-row seats at NBA games. With England and Nigeria also in the running, he ultimately chose the USA in 2023. When asked how he planned to celebrate his exceptional performance, he replied with a smile: ‘Honestly? I’ll probably just watch Netflix.’ Balogun did not forget the American fans who convinced him to choose to represent the United States. ‘Throughout this journey, the fans have given me tremendous support. I always wanted to repay their trust. Today was a great opportunity to show that I made the right decision,’ he stated. In the stands, there were many well-known personalities. Before the kickoff, singer Katy Perry performed, and the game was attended by Hollywood stars such as Tom Cruise, Leonardo Di Caprio, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Halle Berry. The home team showcased offensive football to the audience and, after a dominant first half, was already leading 3-0. Balogun also received praise from Christian Pulisic. ‘This guy is incredible. Right now, he is lethal in front of goal. Let’s hope he keeps it up for as long as possible,’ said the current biggest idol of American football. The USA still has matches against Australia and Turkey in the group stage, but after a dominant start, they significantly reinforced their ambitions. Balogun echoed coach Mauricio Pochettino’s words: ‘Why not us?’
Read more in Premier League news. and related tags: Rejected England, In the.