At Allegiant Stadium on Sunday, the United States defeated Canada 2-0 with Folarin Balogun scoring his first goal for the team. The US has won both of the CONCACAF region’s Nations League competitions and will now try to complete a regional hat trick at the Gold Cup later this month.
Balogun scored 21 goals while on loan from Arsenal to the French Ligue 1 team Reims last season. He is expected to be a key member of the American team when they co-host the 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico.
USA Wins the Nations League
The attacker, who was born in New York and relocated to England when he was two years old, made his international debut for the United States in the 3-0 semifinal victory against Mexico. He quickly forged a close bond with the wingers Tim Weah and Christian Pulisic to form a potent forward line.
The Americans were in charge for long stretches despite having a weaker midfield without Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, who were their top choices. Balogun, who was forced to leave the game early due to an ankle injury, had a wonderful sense of belonging.
- US wins CONCACAF Nations League, hat trick at Gold Cup.
- Balogun, Arsenal loanee, is expected to play in the 2026 World Cup.
- Americans managed weak midfield, Balogun’s injury contributed to team’s success.
A Canada squad that had gone 23 years without winning a trophy was given few opportunities by the US, which was coached by temporary coach B.J Callaghan.
The greatest opportunity for John Herdman’s team came in the 67th minute when Cyle Larin’s effort was stopped and his second attempt went high over the crossbar.
Jesus Gallardo’s goal in the fourth minute helped Mexico defeat Panama 1-0 to take third place in the competition.
