Folarin Balogun, who could have played for England or Nigeria, scores 2 for US in World Cup debut
The Seattle Times • • general
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 and fans alike.
- Born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents and raised in London, Balogun committed to the U.S. national team three years ago, aiming to repay the support from American fans.
- The U.S. took an early lead with an own goal, followed by Balogun’s goals assisted by Christian Pulisic, who tied for fourth most assists in U.S. history.
- Balogun expressed joy at sharing the moment with family and plans to relax after the match, describing the experience as "a once in a lifetime occasion."