Three Potential Replacements for Folarin Balogun in USMNT’s World Cup Round of 16 Match

USMNT Faces Challenge Without Top Scorer Folarin Balogun Against Belgium

The U.S. men’s national team is preparing for a crucial round of 16 clash at the World Cup, but it will be without its leading goal scorer, Folarin Balogun, who was suspended after receiving a red card in the previous round. This leaves a significant gap to fill as the team takes on Belgium in a must-win game.

USMNT’s History at the World Cup

Since 2002, the U.S. has struggled to progress beyond the round of 16 at the World Cup, making this stage a familiar hurdle. The team’s only advancement past this point was 24 years ago when they reached the quarterfinals, defeating Mexico before losing to Germany. The best overall performance dates back to the first World Cup in 1930, reaching the semifinals in a much smaller tournament format.

After a strong 2–0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, confidence is growing for the USMNT to make an unprecedented run, especially playing on home soil. Still, replacing Balogun’s three goals from this tournament will be a challenge.

Who Could Step Up?

Ricardo Pepi: The Most Likely Substitute

Ricardo Pepi seems like the natural choice to replace Balogun. He appeared briefly as a substitute against Bosnia and Herzegovina and brings experience from his second World Cup. Although he has shown inconsistency in scoring at the international level and is less committed defensively, his attacking skills align closely with Balogun’s style.

Pepi scored 19 goals and made two assists for PSV Eindhoven last season despite recovering from injuries. His ability to chase down through balls with longer strides might be key against Belgium’s defense, which has just come off a demanding extra-time match against Senegal. Pepi’s 13 goals in 40 appearances for the USMNT demonstrate his capability to find the net even if he lacks Balogun’s versatility and physicality.

Haji Wright: Bringing Physicality and Aerial Threat

If the USMNT wants a more physical presence up front, Haji Wright could fit that role. The Coventry City striker, soon moving to the Premier League, scored 17 goals in 31 games last season and offers a stronger build and aerial threat compared to Pepi or Balogun.

His lack of pace might limit dynamic play, but his strength could wear down Belgian defenders early, potentially creating space for other attackers. Fitness could be a concern since he hasn’t played full matches recently and might struggle with the summer heat.

Brenden Aaronson: An Unconventional Option

Brenden Aaronson is not a traditional striker and had a difficult outing against Türkiye, but some tactical shifts could put him in a role to help offset Balogun’s absence. Aaronson’s versatility and Premier League experience make him a valuable option.

A possible strategy involves moving Christian Pulisic into a center-forward position while Aaronson takes the left wing, abandoning the use of a pure striker. This unexpected lineup change could surprise Belgium and offer fresh attacking threats, though it would break from usual patterns under coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Replacing Balogun won’t be simple, but these three players each offer different strengths that might help the USMNT continue their historic World Cup journey.