Balogun Sets Sights On Matching Messi, Mbappé, Haaland At 2026 World Cup

United States striker Folarin Balogun has declared his ambition to reach the level of football’s most feared goalscorers, naming Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland as the benchmark he is chasing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Balogun admitted that watching the trio score with remarkable regularity can be frustrating, but said their consistency serves as motivation as he seeks to establish himself among the game’s elite forwards. The former Arsenal striker believes he possesses the talent needed to become just as reliable in front of goal.

“I think it’s annoying!” joked Balogun. “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’s comments come as he continues his pursuit of a place among the leading scorers at the tournament. With Messi recently breaking the all-time World Cup scoring record, Balogun has made no secret of his desire to keep climbing the rankings and leave his own mark on football’s biggest stage.

However, the striker faces a delicate balancing act heading into the knockout rounds. Carrying a yellow card, he risks suspension if booked again, a situation that could force him to miss a crucial match should the United States progress.

Despite the threat, Balogun insists he will not abandon the aggressive style that has brought him success.

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

“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.”