I can match Messi, Mbappe, Haaland in goals – USA’s Balogun

United States forward Folarin Balogun has revealed that he draws inspiration from some of football’s most prolific goalscorers, including Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland, as he seeks to make a bigger impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Balogun, who has enjoyed an impressive start to the tournament, admitted he is both amazed and motivated by the consistency with which the trio find the back of the net.

Speaking during a training session, the striker said he hopes to develop the same level of reliability in front of goal that has made the three stars among the best in the world.

“I think it’s annoying!” Balogun joked. “Seeing players like Messi, Mbappe, Haaland — they’re so inevitable. I think they’re scoring a goal a game, sometimes more.”

“For me, it’s just about trying to get to that level — to be inevitable as well, to be consistent. And I’m sure I’ve got the potential in me to do that.”

The 25-year-old is among the leading scorers at the tournament and is aiming to continue adding to his tally as the United States prepare for the knockout stages.

Balogun, however, acknowledged the importance of balancing his attacking ambitions with discipline, as he currently carries a yellow card that could lead to suspension.

“That is the sort of player I am,” he said.

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“I think the most important thing for a professional athlete in any sport is to be available. I’m no different, so, of course, I want to play.

“But it’s also important to be smart. I wouldn’t want to pick up a yellow card and miss the round of 32.

“Hopefully the further we go, the more opportunities I have to score.

“I mean, any goal in the World Cup is something that’s going to be cherished forever.”

Balogun’s performances have been instrumental in helping the United States reach the knockout rounds, and the striker will be hoping to maintain his form as the tournament enters its decisive phase.

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