Folarin Balogun
USA
Likely to lead attacking line
Balogun should lead the attacking line for the USMNT in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Analysis: While there's a scenario in which Christian Pulisic might be deployed as a False 9 in a 4-3-3, conventional wisdom would suggest Balogun should be the striker. The AS Monaco star notched 18 goals and four assists across 40 appearances (36 starts) between the UEFA Champions League and Ligue 1 in 2025/26. The USMNT pool doesn't have any other player on the roster scoring goals at this rate and at this level, meaning Balogun is an easy choice to lead the line ahead of other available options such as Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright.
Five shots in finale
Balogun had five shots (one on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and two chances created in Sunday's 5-4 defeat to Strasbourg.
Analysis: Balogun tried his very best to get involved in Sunday's nine-goal thriller, but none of his five shots found the back of the net. It was still a very productive season for the striker as he scored 13 goals and recorded four assists in 30 appearances (26 starts) in Ligue 1. He now heads into the World Cup with the United States where there's a good chance he will lead the attack on home soil.
Curling finish in win
Balogun scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal) and one cross (one accurate) in Saturday's 2-1 win versus Metz.
Analysis: Balgoun's strike into the far corner of the net Saturday leveled the fixture at one before Monaco would pull away for a 2-1 win over Metz. The goal is a continuation of the veteran striker's extraordinary fun of form during which he's scored 11 goals and assisted once across his last 12 appearances (12 starts) in all competitions. Balgoun has played the full 90 minutes twice across his last 10 appearances (10 starts).
Nets equalizer on Sunday
Balogun scored one goal to go with four shots (three on goal) in Sunday's 2-2 draw versus AJ Auxerre.
Analysis: Balogun smartly converted a spot-kick to equalize in the 59th minute. He won the penalty himself and also won two duels. Currently on a hot streak, he has scored in each of his last eight appearances, bringing his total to 12 goals for the campaign. He will be looking to finish the season on a strong note.
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