World Cup: LeBron James praises Balogun for celebration, goal against Bosnia

Basketball superstar LeBron James has congratulated United States striker Folarin Balogun after the forward celebrated his goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina with the NBA icon’s trademark “Silencer” celebration.

Balogun found the net twice during the USA’s 2-0 victory in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash on Wednesday, although his first effort was ruled out for offside.

On both occasions, the 24-year-old performed James’ famous celebration, prompting the Los Angeles Lakers star to react on social media.

“THE (Silencer) HAS (Arrived) at the World Cup!” James wrote on X, accompanied by a shushing emoji and a plane landing emoji.

“Helluva goal there, Young (King)!” he added, using a crown emoji.

James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, is well known for performing the “Silencer” celebration after scoring in high-pressure moments.

Read Also: Six EPL clubs monitoring USA’s Balogun ahead of summer transfer window

The celebration involves lifting the knees, pushing both palms toward the floor and tapping the chest, symbolising that he has “silenced” his opponents.

Balogun, who was born in New York, raised in London and currently plays his club football in France, is a well-known basketball enthusiast.

It is even reported that when the United States Soccer Federation sought to convince him to represent the US instead of England or Nigeria, officials flew him to Florida and treated him to courtside NBA tickets.

The striker has now scored three goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping the United States reach the Round of 16.

However, Balogun will miss his side’s next match against Belgium after being sent off in the second half of the victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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