USMNT's Balogun scores, gets red card, earns LeBron praise at World Cup
In a 2026 World Cup Round of 32 match at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, USMNT striker Folarin Balogun scored a goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina, celebrating with LeBron James' "silencer" move. James praised him on social media. However, Balogun was controversially sent off in the second half after a VAR review, resulting in a suspension for the Round of 16 match against Belgium. The US won 2-0.
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USMNT striker Folarin Balogun joins LeBron's Klutch Sports agency after World Cup star turn
United States forward Folarin Balogun has signed with Klutch Sports, the agency founded by LeBron James' longtime friend Rich Paul, following a standout World Cup campaign. Balogun scored three goals for the USMNT in the 2026 World Cup, including a memorable goal against Bosnia where he performed LeBron James' 'Silencer' celebration. He was also involved in a controversy when his red card against Bosnia was suspended, allowing him to play against Belgium in the round of 16. Klutch Sports, which represents LeBron James, Jalen Hurts, and Anthony Davis, announced the signing on social media. Balogun, 25, currently plays for Monaco and is expected to be transferred this summer for a fee around €50 million. He scored 19 goals for Monaco last season, including three against Champions League winner PSG.
Soccer - The AthleticUSMNT striker Folarin Balogun joins LeBron's Klutch Sports agency after World Cup star turn
United States forward Folarin Balogun has signed with Klutch Sports, the agency founded by LeBron James' longtime friend Rich Paul, following an eventful 2026 World Cup campaign. Balogun scored three goals for the USMNT, including a controversial red card incident against Bosnia and Herzegovina that was later suspended. He twice used LeBron James' iconic 'Silencer' celebration during the tournament. Klutch Sports, which represents LeBron James, Jalen Hurts, and Anthony Davis, announced the signing on social media. Balogun, 25, came through Arsenal's academy and has scored 31 goals in 91 appearances for Monaco over three seasons. The Ligue 1 club is reportedly seeking around €50 million for a summer transfer, with interest from English and Italian clubs. Klutch has previously acquired European agency roof, which represents US midfielders Malik Tillman and Gio Reyna.
Soccer - The AthleticFolarin Balogun Responds to LeBron James Tweet After World Cup Goal
After scoring in the United States' World Cup round of 16 victory over Bosnia, striker Folarin Balogun responded to a tweet from NBA superstar LeBron James. Balogun thanked James for his support and used the moment to call for unity across the United States. The exchange highlights the intersection of sports and social messaging on a global stage, as Balogun's goal helped advance the US team in the tournament.
kicker Fußball NewsFolarin Balogun channeled LeBron and made himself America's newest sports star
Folarin Balogun scored a goal for the USMNT against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 2026 World Cup, celebrating with LeBron James' signature 'Silencer' move. The goal electrified fans, and his subsequent controversial red card in the 64th minute turned him into a sympathetic figure, gaining him widespread support. LeBron James himself acknowledged the goal on social media. Balogun will miss the Round of 16 match against Belgium due to the red card. The article highlights how Balogun used cultural shorthand to transcend soccer and become a mainstream American sports star overnight.
Soccer - The AthleticFolarin Balogun channeled LeBron and made himself America's newest sports star
Folarin Balogun scored a goal for the USMNT against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 2026 World Cup, celebrating with LeBron James' signature 'Silencer' move, which instantly resonated with American fans. The goal electrified the crowd and earned praise from LeBron James himself. However, Balogun received a controversial red card in the 64th minute, disqualifying him from the Round of 16 match against Belgium. The incident turned him into a sympathetic figure and rapidly expanded his fanbase. The article explores how Balogun used cultural shorthand to transcend soccer and become a mainstream American sports star overnight.
Soccer - The AthleticLeBron James Reacts to USMNT's Folarin Balogun Copying His 'Silencer' Celebration at 2026 World Cup
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32, USMNT forward Folarin Balogun scored a goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 45th minute and celebrated by mimicking NBA star LeBron James' iconic 'silencer' gesture. LeBron James reacted on social media platform X, posting 'LFG!!!!!! THE SILENCER HAS ARRIVED at the World Cup! Helluva goal there, Young King. Go USA!' The USMNT won the match 2-0, with Malik Tillman also scoring. However, Balogun was controversially sent off in the second half for an unintentional challenge, resulting in a suspension for the Round of 16 match against Belgium. Balogun's third career World Cup goal was highlighted, and his absence is seen as a potential setback for the USMNT.
Yardbarker: SoccerFolarin Balogun Imitates LeBron James Celebration After World Cup Goal
During the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between the United States and Bosnia-Herzegovina, Monaco striker Folarin Balogun scored the opening goal in a 2-0 victory. After scoring, Balogun imitated NBA star LeBron James's signature celebration, stomping the ground and repeatedly striking his chest, a gesture associated with James's tenure with the Miami Heat (2010-2014). The article also notes that Balogun was sent off during the match, though the specific timing and reason for the red card are not detailed. The celebration highlights the cross-sport admiration common among footballers.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuLeBron James praises Folarin Balogun before US striker's red card in World Cup win over Bosnia
During the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match between the United States and Bosnia & Herzegovina, former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun scored for the US but was later sent off after a VAR review. Balogun initially had a goal disallowed for offside in the 31st minute, but scored a legitimate goal 14 minutes later, celebrating with LeBron James' signature 'Silencer' move. NBA icon LeBron James acknowledged the celebration on social media, praising Balogun. However, early in the second half, Balogun was shown a red card following a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic, after the referee consulted the pitchside monitor. The red card means Balogun will be suspended for the US's last-16 tie against Belgium.
Mirror - FootballLeBron James reacts to Folarin Balogun's celebration after US World Cup goal
USMNT striker Folarin Balogun scored a goal in the 45th minute of a World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. After scoring, Balogun performed a 'silencer' celebration popularized by NBA star LeBron James. James responded on social media platform X, writing: 'LFG!!!!!! THE [silencer emoji] HAS [landed emoji] at the World Cup! Helluva goal there Young [king emoji].' Balogun, a 24-year-old New York native, now has three goals in the tournament. The article notes Balogun had an earlier goal disallowed for offside and previously assisted a referee during group stage.
Yardbarker: Soccer