Folarin Balogun, a forward born in New York and raised in England, scored his first goal for the United States in a 2-0 victory over Canada at Allegiant Stadium, securing the CONCACAF Nations League title. Balogun, who recently switched his national team allegiance from England, found the back of the net after Chris Richards had given the US an early lead with a header.
The US team has now won both editions of the Nations League held in the CONCACAF region and will aim for a regional double in the upcoming Gold Cup later this month. Gio Reyna, the midfielder who was involved in off-the-field controversies surrounding head coach Gregg Berhalter, played a crucial role in both goals. Reyna provided a perfectly floated corner for Richards’ header and then set up Balogun’s goal with a precise pass through the defense.
Balogun, who spent the previous season on loan at French club Reims, where he scored 21 goals, remains uncertain about his club future but is expected to be an integral part of the American squad heading into the co-hosted 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico. The forward, who previously represented England at the Under-21 level, made his debut for the US national team in the semifinal victory over Mexico.
Balogun expressed his joy at the team’s triumph, highlighting the importance of building relationships with his teammates. Despite midfield absences, the US displayed dominance for significant periods of the match, and captain Christian Pulisic emphasized the team’s progress. The US team limited Canada’s chances, with their marking strategy effectively neutralizing danger man Alphonso Davies of Bayern Munich. Mexico secured third place in the tournament by defeating Panama 1-0, courtesy of a goal from Jesus Gallardo in the fourth minute.