US forward #20 Folarin Balogun (C) celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates during the 2026 World Cup Group D football match between USA and Paraguay at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood on June 12, 2026. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP)
Folarin Balogun continued his stellar form for the United States Men’s National Team on Friday, earning his second consecutive Man of the Match award during the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage.
His latest award was given for his impactful performance as the USMNT beat Australia 2–0 to secure a knockout stage ticket.
The Nigerian-American striker pressured Australian defenders into forcing an own goal by Cameron Burgess for the opening goal in the 11th minute. Related News Nigeria set to lead Africa’s digital, creative economy — EU ambassador USA down Australia 2-0 to reach World Cup knockout rounds Neymar working remotely at the World Cup — Brazil president
His relentless movement, hold-up play and link-up with teammates helped the co-hosts dominate possession and control the match, even in the absence of star attacker Christian Pulisic.
