Folarin Balogun scores 2 goals in World Cup debut for US
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Folarin Balogun, eligible to play for three countries, chose the United States and scored two goals in his World Cup debut, helping the U.S. secure a 4-1 victory over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium.
- Balogun became the first U.S. player since 1930 to score multiple goals in a World Cup game, drawing praise from teammates including Christian Pulisic.
- Born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents and raised in London, Balogun previously played for England's youth teams before committing to the U.S. national team three years ago.
- The U.S. took an early lead with an own goal, and Balogun's goals, assisted by Pulisic, highlighted his strong performance and growing importance to the team.
- Balogun expressed gratitude for fan support and shared that his family was present in the crowd, making the occasion a memorable experience.