SAN JOSE, Calif. — Angelo Rachal, 31, watched the U.S. men’s national team’s 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina from San Pedro Square in San Jose on Wednesday along with thousands of others. The crowd roared when Folarin Balogun nutmegged the keeper for America’s first goal.At that point, Rachal had no idea who No. 20 was and certainly didn’t know his name. But after scoring just before halftime, Balogun celebrated in a way Rachal and many other Americans knew well.The Silencer.USMNT will face Belgium without Folarin BalogunTom Bogert and Lia GriffinIt’s the celebration of LeBron James, the one he made famous while playing with the Miami Heat. Balogun patted his chest twice with his right hand. Then, with three high-knee steps, he pushed down on either side with his hands.“When I saw him hit the LeBron, that was crazy,” said Rachal, an Antioch native who works at a plant in Santa Clara and roots for the Golden State Warriors. “That’s my dawg now. I might have to get his jersey.”He won’t be alone. Because Balogun spoke in cultural shorthand that transcended soccer. Plenty of Americans watching may not have recognized him. Almost everyone recognized James. The World Cup is sports’ biggest event. Soccer is the most popular sport on the globe. But Americans love basketball. And within seconds, amid euphoria, Balogun introduced and endeared himself to millions. Including the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
Folarin Balogun channeled LeBron and made himself America’s newest sports star
His goal Wednesday at the World Cup energized the country. His red card earned him even more supporters. This was Folarin Balogun's moment.















