Folarin Balogun
USAForwardMonacoFolarin Balogun goes into World Cup 2026 as a player who can change the final third for USA. He brings 26 caps and 9 goals into the tournament. Monaco provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is transition runs, finishing positions and the press from the front.
Group D
Jun 12, 2026vs Paraguay - 6:00 PM PDT
Quick Facts
Folarin Balogun and USA World Cup 2026 Squad
USA selected Folarin Balogun for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a forward, he can turn transition moments into shots while still working without the ball.
Balogun is part of a group of 3 forwards, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Folarin Balogun brings 26 caps and 9 goals into the tournament.
Balogun's senior international timeline dates back to 2023, which gives the record more weight than a simple squad listing.
International Record
- International record: Folarin Balogun enters the tournament with 26 caps and 9 goals for USA.
- World Cup 2026 role: USA list Folarin Balogun as a forward, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: USA face Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye in the group stage.
Playing Style and Strengths
Balogun's World Cup value starts with transition runs, finishing positions and the press from the front.
On the ball, Balogun needs the first touch to keep shooting or crossing lanes alive.
- Clinical finishing
- Penalty-area movement
- Near-post runs
- Pressing angles
- Center-back duels
- Rebound reactions
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
USA start against Paraguay on 12 June 2026 in Los Angeles. For Balogun, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Australia follow on 19 June 2026 in Seattle. For Balogun, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves USA chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 12, 20266:00 PM PDT | Paraguay | Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles |
| Jun 19, 202612:00 PM PDT |  Australia | Seattle Stadium, Seattle |
| Jun 25, 20267:00 PM PDT |  Türkiye | Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Folarin Balogun played 30 Ligue 1 matches for Monaco in 2025/26, scoring 13 goals and providing 3 assists.
Balogun's latest checked appearance came on May 31, 2026, with 45 minutes in USA versus Senegal.
Career Stats
Folarin Balogun brings 26 caps and 9 goals into the tournament.
For USA, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Balogun's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | USA |
| Position | Forward |
| Club | Monaco |
| Caps | 26 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Born | 3 July 2001 |
World Cup 2026 Role
Folarin Balogun enters World Cup 2026 with USA as a forward. The senior record stands at 26 caps and 9 goals. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
USA will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are movement, finishing and pressing from the front.
USA start against Paraguay on Jun 12, 2026 in Los Angeles. Australia and Türkiye come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Folarin Balogun in the USA World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Folarin Balogun is in USA's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Folarin Balogun play?
He is listed as a forward for USA.
How many international caps and goals does Folarin Balogun have?
He enters World Cup 2026 with 26 caps and 9 goals for USA.
Who are USA's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
USA face Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye in the group stage.
When is Folarin Balogun's first World Cup 2026 match?
USA start against Paraguay on 12 June 2026 in Los Angeles.
What is Folarin Balogun's latest club form?
He plays for Monaco in the checked player facts.
More USA World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more USA squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group D Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USA | 3 | 4 | 6 |
| 2 | Australia | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 | Paraguay | 3 | -2 | 4 |
| 4 | Türkiye | 3 | -2 | 3 |