INGLEWOOD, United States — United States striker Folarin Balogun has set his sights on rivalling the elite group of “inevitable” goalscorers like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the race for the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot, even as a yellow card threatens to derail his campaign.
The 25-year-old Monaco forward has already scored twice in the tournament, helping the host nation secure a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening Group D match. His brace in that match made him the first American player to score multiple goals in a World Cup game since Bert Patenaude’s hat-trick in 1930.
Speaking to reporters at the US training camp, Balogun admitted he covets the Golden Boot but finds it hard to keep track of all the goals being scored by the world’s best players. “I think it’s annoying!” he joked. “Seeing players like Messi, Mbappé, Haaland — they’re so inevitable. I think they’re scoring a goal a game, sometimes more.”
Balogun currently sits among a crowded field of 18 players tied with two goals each, while Messi leads the race with three goals. The Argentine icon recently broke the all-time World Cup scoring record, adding to his legendary status.
“For me, it’s just about trying to get to that level — to be inevitable as well, to be consistent. And I’m sure I’ve got the potential in me to do that,” Balogun said.
However, his pursuit may face a complication. The USMNT has already secured qualification to the knockout rounds, and coach Mauricio Pochettino may be tempted to rest key players against Turkey. Balogun is also carrying a yellow card, meaning another booking would cause him to miss their first knockout clash.
“I want to play every game. That’s what got me to where I am: being available,” Balogun said. “But it’s also important to be smart. I wouldn’t want to pick up a yellow card and miss the Round of 32.”
Balogun’s rise has been remarkable. Born in New York but raised in London, he chose to represent the United States in 2023 after coming through Arsenal’s academy. He now plays for Monaco, where he top-scored last season with 19 goals following a reported €40 million transfer.
The race for the Golden Boot remains wide open, with players like Germany’s Deniz Undav also sitting on three goals. Messi and Mbappé are the co-favourites at +300, while Balogun is priced at +3500.
If the USMNT continues its deep run, Balogun will have more opportunities to chase the scoring crown and add to his legacy. He has already made history—and he’s not done yet.
