FLASH
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The USA started their adventure at the 2026 World Cup, where they are one of the host countries, with a convincing victory, defeating Paraguay with a score of 4-1. The absolute protagonist of the challenge was Folarin Balogun, the author of two goals in the first half, which laid the foundations of the American success.
The Monaco striker has a unique story that is directly related to representing the United States. Although he grew up in England and developed his football career in the Arsenal academy, Balogun ended up wearing the American jersey thanks to an unusual circumstance.
Born to Nigerian parents living in London and holding British citizenship, Balogun was born in the US in 2001. His parents were on holiday in the US when his mother was in the final months of her pregnancy. According to previously published accounts, the family had planned to return to England, but travel companies refused to allow the flight due to the closeness of the due date and the risks of a long journey.
As a result, the family remained in the US until the birth of Folarin Balogun, who automatically obtained US citizenship under the country's legislation. The family then returned to London, where the footballer grew up and took his first steps in professional football.
Balogun represented England at all age levels up to the U-21 level. In 2022, he faced Albania U-21 twice, scoring four goals in two games against the Rossoneri.
However, in 2023, the striker decided to change national teams and accept the invitation of the USA, without waiting for the opportunity to become part of the first team of England. A choice that proved successful, as today he is considered one of the key players of the American national team.
The two goals against Paraguay in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup once again confirmed Balogun's importance in the US project, which aims to leave its mark on the biggest tournament in world football.
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