June 20, 2026
Folarin Balogun’s impressive start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continued on Friday as the striker picked up his second straight Man of the Match award after helping the United States book a place in the knockout stage.
The Nigerian-American forward was instrumental in the Americans’ 2-0 victory over Australia, a result that secured qualification for the Round of 32 and confirmed the co-hosts as Group D winners.
Although he did not get on the scoresheet, Balogun played a key role in the opening goal after his high pressing unsettled the Australian defence.
Under pressure from the striker, defender Cameron Burgess inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 11th minute to give the United States an early advantage.
