Folarin Balogun Playing Today? USA vs Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Jeronimo Santos
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Striker Folarin Balogun should be the starter in charge of the United States team’s attack in the debut of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this Friday (12), against Paraguay, at SoFi Stadium, in Inglewood, Los Angeles region. At 24 years old, the Monaco player arrives in top form and as Mauricio Pochettino’s main offensive reference.
Born on July 3, 2001, in New York, Balogun was formed at Arsenal, spent loans at Middlesbrough and Reims where he shone with 21 goals before moving to Monaco in 2023 for around 40 million euros. In the 2025/26 season, he enjoyed one of the best moments of his career, with 13 goals in Ligue 1 and recognition as the club’s Player of the Season.
Current form and role in the USMNT
Balogun opted for the American team in 2023 and has accumulated 27 games and 9 goals for the USMNT. His speed, precise finishing and intelligent movement make him a constant threat. Pochettino counts on him to form a partnership with Christian Pulisic, exploring spaces and converting the chances created by the midfield.
Challenge against the Paraguayan defense
Paraguay returns to the World Cup after 16 years and arrives with one of the most solid defenses in the South American qualifiers, under the command of Gustavo Alfaro. Names like Gustavo Gómez and Omar Alderete will directly test the American center forward, who will need intelligence to overcome the compact marking. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie whistles the match.
Motivation for home debut
Playing at the modern SoFi Stadium, with the support of the local fans, represents a special moment for Balogun, who dreams of shining in the tournament on American soil. The USA are looking to win the opening of Group D, which still includes Australia and Türkiye, to start the competition with confidence.
Recent history shows the Americans beating Paraguay 2-1 in a friendly in 2025. In the World Cup, the weight is greater, and Balogun’s goals could be decisive from the first game.
Balogun as hope of the American attack
Alongside Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Malik Tillman and full-backs such as Antonee Robinson and Sergiño Dest, the center forward symbolizes the USMNT’s offensive potential. A good performance on his debut could consolidate his role as the team’s top scorer in the home campaign.
The match is scheduled for 10pm (Brasília time). The stadium is expected to register a large crowd for the start of the hosts’ journey.
