Nigeria may not be in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but players with Nigerian roots made sure the country was noticed on the tournament's second day.
Folarin Balogun, a former Nigeria-eligible striker, was the star of the show. He scored two goals as the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1. Also, Abuja-born Tani Oluwaseyi and Promise David played for Canada, which got its first-ever FIFA World Cup point with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
These performances kept all the host teams from losing their opening matches, with Mexico starting strong with a 2-0 win over South Africa on Thursday.
Balogun leads American charge
Balogun had one of the best performances of the opening round. The United States kicked off their World Cup journey with a big win in front of 70,492 fans at SoFi Stadium.
The 24-year-old forward scored twice in the first half, putting Paraguay on the back foot and helping the Americans to an easy win. An own goal by Damian Bobadilla gave the hosts an early lead before Balogun extended it after being set up by captain Christian Pulisic.
Just before halftime, Balogun scored again, sending a powerful shot into the top corner. This got the home crowd excited. Giovanni Reyna, who came off the bench, added a fourth goal in stoppage time, sealing a strong performance for the Americans.
Balogun's two goals made him a part of U.S. football history. He became the first American to score multiple goals in a World Cup match since Bert Patenaude's famous hat-trick against Paraguay in 1930.
This is especially meaningful for Nigerian football fans. Balogun was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Nigerian parents. He moved to England as a baby and grew up in Arsenal's academy. He played for England at youth level but was also eligible for Nigeria before choosing to represent the United States.
Canada’s Nigerian connection
While Balogun was in the spotlight, Canada had its own Nigerian influence in their Group B match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Canadians looked like they would lose after Jovo Lukic scored for Bosnia in the 21st minute. Canada created many chances but could not find the net until substitute Cyle Larin scored an equalizer just three minutes after coming on.
This goal secured a historic 1-1 draw, marking Canada’s first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup. Nigeria's connection to this achievement came from substitutes Oluwaseyi and David, who both played a part as Canada fought to get back in the game.
Oluwaseyi was born in Abuja and later moved to Canada. He has become one of Canada's key attacking players in recent years. David, also eligible to play for Nigeria, was brought on as Canada searched for that crucial equalizer.
Nigerian influence beyond the Super Eagles
The opening days of the World Cup have once again shown Nigeria's huge impact on global football talent.
Even though the Super Eagles are not in the tournament, players of Nigerian descent are still making waves for various countries. As the tournament goes on, more players with Nigerian roots are expected to shine on this big stage.
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