Before this weekend, the last time Folarin Balogun scored was in the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina at this past summer’s World Cup. In the immediate aftermath, the outlook for Balogun seemed rosy; an ascendant player who could muster a goal in tense games. At half-time against Bosnia, US fans weren’t just wondering how far his team could advance – they were sizing Balogun up against some of the world’s best strikers.
But for most of the ensuing four months, Balogun has been in limbo. His breakout World Cup was overshadowed by a red card in that same game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by a scandal of which he wanted no part. Just as it seemed a summer move away from Monaco could get his club career on track, he broke off a possible deadline-day move to Everton after a lengthy visit to the training grounds and a medical he felt was improperly handled.
While many expect that Balogun will get his move in January, to the Premier League or elsewhere, Monaco have understandably prepared for life without him. New manager Filipe Luís continues to prefer 20-year-old German youth international Paris Brunner to Balogun, giving the youngster ample time to tap into his vast potential. Balogun’s opportunities to turn the page have been limited.
On Sunday, though, Balogun took the first steps toward a brighter future, scoring the lone goal as Monaco fell 3-1 to Paris FC. Monaco struggled to muster any meaningful chances in the first half against Paris, with Brunner sending the team’s only shot wide. Paris FC attacked relentlessly, stunning the early Ligue 1 title hopefuls with two goals just before half-time.
On days when Brunner puts it all together, such as when he bagged a brace against Marseille, he lives up to Luis’s faith. On other days, like Sunday, that faith can backfire. Luís gave the American a chance to buck his months-long drought, bringing him on at half-time in place of Brunner, with a golden opportunity presenting itself in the 66th minute.
Monaco broke up the right flank with a dribble from Brazilian right-back Vanderson, with Balogun running the channels while the Paris defense backtracked. Vanderson played a teasing low cross into the mixer that the goalkeeper couldn’t claim. Balogun needed just one prod, directing the ball to the far post.
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