Folarin Balogun ready to shine in Copa America

Folarin Balogun is about to face the biggest challenge of his career so far. The young United States national team forward is ready to make his mark in the Copa America and finally prove that he is among the elite. From his early days on the streets of London to the fervent stadiums of America, Balogun is determined to show his worth and justify the investment of Team USA.

Raised in the United Kingdom, Balogun always had a distant relationship with the Copa America. The matches, played at times that even the most dedicated football fans find difficult, were never a constant presence in his childhood. However, the legendary names who shine in this tournament have always captivated him: Messi, Ronaldo, Adriano, Suarez.

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Balogun’s decision to join the USMNT, made official last March, was a strategic decision for both him and the team. For Balogun, it was a chance to stand out on a stage where he could be needed and valued. For Team USA, it was an opportunity to add talent that could elevate the team to new heights. At just 22 years old, he’s already looking ahead to facing giants like Vinicius Jr., Luis Diaz and even Lionel Messi in a possible final showdown.

Adjusting to the U.S. national team hasn’t been a walk in the park. He was expected to immediately assume the scoring role, but the reality is always more complex. In 12 appearances, Balogun scored just three goals, including a memorable one in the CONCACAF Nations League final against Canada. It is clear that the integration process takes time, both for the player and the team. Coach Gregg Berhalter trusted Balogun and encouraged him to do what he does best.

The camaraderie off the field is also a big challenge. Fitting into a tight-knit group where many players grew up together can be intimidating. But Balogun is not alone on this journey. He found support from teammates with similar experiences, such as Yunus Musah and Cameron Carter-Vickers, helping him feel more comfortable and connected with the group.

His first steps in the United States, a country he mainly knew as a vacation destination, now carry a different weight. Balogun explores the country, gets to know its monuments and tourist sites and, above all, immerses himself in the culture and identity of the team he now represents.

His Monegasque experience also gave him valuable lessons. Used to counterattacking against Reims, Balogun had to adapt to a possession style, a transition that reflects the adjustment needed for the USMNT.

The United States is the favorite in its group, which includes Bolivia, Panama and Uruguay. However, the real challenges will come in the Round of 16, where matches against Brazil or Colombia could define Team USA’s true potential.