2026 World Cup: Nigerian-born striker, Balogun makes history as USA beats Paraguay

United States striker, Folarin Balogun, scored twice in their 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday.

Balogun found the net in the 31st minute before adding a second just before half-time.

His first-half brace also saw him become the first American player in 96 years to score more than one goal in a single World Cup match. 

Balogun was born in Brooklyn, United States, to Nigerian parents. Although he was born in America, he spent only a short time there before moving to England with his family, making him eligible to represent the United States, England and Nigeria.

After the match, he described the performance as a dream come true.

“A real dream, you know? It’s a dream, it’s a dreamy night,” he told reporters after.

“I’ve not been able to take it all in afterwards… I’m sure when I get back to my hotel and I rest, I’m sure I’m going to really be able to be in the moment and experience how much of an amazing night this is.”

2026 World Cup: Nigerian-born striker, Balogun makes history as USA beats Paraguay