For the first time since his breakout 2026 World Cup, Folarin Balogun has scored a goal.
Balogun came on as a halftime substitute for Monaco against Paris FC on Sunday, Nov. 1. The American striker found the net from close range in the 65th minute, cutting Paris FC's lead to 2-1.
The home side would eventually add a third goal, defeating Monaco 3-1.
But for Balogun, the goal was still a positive sign following a tumultuous few months after starring for the U.S. men's national team at the World Cup on home soil.
Balogun was caught up in a hugely controversial incident following his his red card in a 2-0 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup round of 32 – also the last game he scored in before Sunday.
The forward's automatic suspension
was reversed the day before the USMNT faced Belgium in the round of 16, surprisingly giving the U.S. back one of its most crucial players.
Shortly after FIFA's decision was announced, President Donald Trump revealed he pushed FIFA president Gianni Infantino to reverse the suspension. Even with Balogun involved, the U.S. was hammered 4-1 by Belgium.
Following the World Cup, Balogun received interest from several clubs across Europe and was on the verge of joining Everton, before his move to the Premier League side broke down at the 11th hour.
Balogun is still expected to leave Monaco in the near future, perhaps as soon as January. In the meantime, he's seen limited minutes at the Ligue 1 club this season. The 25-year-old dealt with an injury early in the season, before recently being relegated to second choice behind 20-year-old forward Paris Brunner.
Balogun has made just five total appearances this season, coming off the bench in all of them.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Folarin Balogun scores first goal since starring for USMNT at World Cup
