National teams 31 August 2023, 16:01

Folarin Balogun is called up for the US for two friendlies

The new American striker from AS Monaco, who arrived in the Principality on Wednesday, was called up just before the formalization of his signing by Team USA, which will play two friendly matches against Uzbekistan and Oman in early September.

Folarin Balogun, the new Rouge et Blanc forward, won’t be staying long in the Principality. Having just arrived at the foot of the Rock to sign with AS Monaco until June of 2028, the American center-forward will indeed be head, during the international break to defend the colors of his country. Called up by Gregg Berhalter for the next matched of the United States, he will join the team for two friendly matches scheduled during the September international break.

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗢𝗬𝗦 𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞!!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Gregg Berhalter selects 24-player roster ahead of September friendlies » https://t.co/9C2PXqEe17 #USMNT x @BioSteelSports pic.twitter.com/c4BqYXbN4F

— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) August 30, 2023

Getting ready before the big day

The first is against Uzbekistan on September 9, and then against Oman four days later. The former Gunner will therefore only have matches without stakes to play during this international window, and for good reason: the United States are already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, as the host country of the event, along with neighbors Canada and Mexico.

The US will therefore host the most prestigious of competitions for the first time since 1994. It will be a big challenge for Balo’, who will soon have a huge test with his new country.

A young “Yankee”

New, because the 22-year-old American only debuted for Team USA quite recently. Having committed last June to play for the USMNT, he had previously competed at youth levels with England. And he shone on his debut, since in two games, he first came on in a completely crazy match against Mexico (3-0 victory).

He then scored his first goal against Canada (in a 2-0 win), in the final of the Concacaf Nations League… which he helped to win! It was a baptism by fire, and the future looks bright for the newest Monegasque! Bravo, and good luck Balo! 🇺🇸

🔊🔝

𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙈𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙘𝙤 🔴⚪️#WelcomeBalogun 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/QdAIKcwWd8

— AS Monaco 🇲🇨 (@AS_Monaco) August 30, 2023

📅 The USMNT schedule

Friendly matches

Saturday, September 9: USA – Uzbekistan at Citypark, Saint Louis, Missouri (23:30)
Wednesday, September 13: USA – Oman at Allianz Field, Saint Paul, Minnesota (2:30)