United States' Folarin Balogun (left) doubled the side’s lead against Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup 2026 encounter against Paraguay. | Photo Credit: AP

USA forward Folarin Balogun scored twice in his side’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Paraguay at the Sofi stadium in California on Saturday.

The striker managed to turn a cut back from Cristian Pulisic from the left flank towards goal to double USA’s lead in the 31st minute of its Group-D opener.

The striker doubled his tally seconds before halftime, rifling a shot into the roof of the net after overpowering the centre back.

The 24-year-old striker currently plays for AS Monaco in Ligue 1 and has scored 24 goals in 72 appearances for the team from the principality.

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Balogun was born in Brooklyn, New York but grew up in England, developing through the ranks at Premier League side Arsenal.

He managed only two senior appearances for the Gunners and enjoyed loan spells at Middlesbrough and Reims before making the permanent switch to Monaco.

The striker has netted 10 times in 28 appearances for the US men’s national team.

Published on Jun 13, 2026