Nigerian-American Balogun earns second Man of the Match award in 2026 World Cup
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Folarin Balogun received his second consecutive Man of the Match award for the United States Men's National Team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. This recognition followed his performance in the USMNT's 2-0 victory over Australia, which secured their place in the knockout stage. Balogun's pressure on Australian defenders led to an own goal by Cameron Burgess in the 11th minute. His movement, hold-up play, and link-up with teammates contributed to the co-hosts' control of the match. In his World Cup debut against Paraguay, Balogun scored two goals in a 4-1 win, becoming the first American to achieve a brace in a World Cup match since 1930 and earning his first Man of the Match honor. Balogun, born in New York to Nigerian parents and raised in England, chose to represent the United States internationally.
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Original source
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
