USMNT star Folarin Balogun channeled his inner LeBron James at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The USMNT recently faced off against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As expected, the hosts walked away with a comfortable 2-0 win, with stars Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman beating the goalkeeper for the USMNT.
LeBron James reacts to Folarin Balogun doing the iconic ‘Silencer’ celebration
While the two sides remained in a deadlock for the majority of the first half, Balogun scored at the 45th-minute mark.
Following his goal, Balogun pulled off NBA superstar LeBron James’ iconic ‘silencer’ celebration, and the crowd erupted with cheers.
Upon seeing the goal, James couldn’t help but share his reaction to the celebration on X.
“LFG!!!!!! THE [SILENCER] HAS [ARRIVED] at the World Cup! Helluva goal there, Young [King]. Go [USA]!” the former LA Lakers star tweeted.
Balogun, being 24 years old, likely watched James in the NBA while growing up. So, it’s certainly great to be acknowledged by one of the best NBA players of all time.
xfFolarin Balogun’s insane World Cup run interrupted by a controversial red card
The first-half goal marked Balogun’s third career goal at the biggest tournament in soccer. Considering his form, Balogun will be key in carrying the USMNT forward.
Unfortunately, Balogun’s dream run was interrupted during the second half when he was sent off for an unintentional challenge.
While the USMNT managed to hold off Bosnia with just 10 men for the final 30 minutes or so of the game, Balogun’s absence could spell trouble for them in the Round of 16.
The USMNT are set to take on Belgium in the next round, but Balogun is suspended for that matchup. If the hosts do get knocked out, many fans will blame it on the ref who, rather unfairly, sent off the US star.
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