Balogun shines among Nigerian-descendant scorers

U.S. striker, Folarin Balogun. Credit AFP

Although the Super Eagles are not in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, Nigeria's presence in the tournament is clear. Over 16 players of Nigerian descent have played in the 48-nation competition. This is double the number that took part in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Many of them are already making an impact in the group stage, as Peter Akinbo reports.

FOLARIN BALOGUN
The biggest highlight so far is Balogun. He has quickly become one of the top stars of the tournament. The 25-year-old was born in New York to Nigerian parents and raised in England. He made his mark by scoring two goals in the United States' 4-1 win against Paraguay. This made him the first American player to score two or more goals in a World Cup match in 96 years.

He continued his strong performance with another Man of the Match showing in the 2-0 win against Australia. This victory secured the co-hosts a spot in the Round of 32 as Group D winners. Balogun helped set up the first goal without scoring himself. His high pressing forced defender Cameron Burgess into an own goal. His back-to-back Man of the Match awards have made him the top Nigerian-heritage player of the tournament so far.

Balogun had the choice to play for England, Nigeria, or the United States at the senior level. He decided to go with the Stars and Stripes after playing for England at youth level.