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

The U.S. men’s national team prepares to face Belgium in the World Cup round of 16 without their leading scorer, Folarin Balogun, who will miss the match due to suspension. Balogun’s absence leaves a significant gap in attack, as he has netted three of the team’s ten goals so far in the tournament.

The USMNT has never advanced past the round of 16 since 2002 and has only once won a knockout game at this stage, back in 1994 when they beat Mexico before falling to Germany in the quarterfinals. This year’s strong performance, including topping Group D and defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina, has fueled hopes that the U.S. could go further than ever on home soil.

Ricardo Pepi: The Most Likely Choice

Ricardo Pepi seems the natural replacement. He appeared briefly against Bosnia and Herzegovina as a substitute and is a proven scorer with 13 goals in 40 appearances for the national team. Pepi’s style differs from Balogun’s; while he may lack some defensive work rate, his attacking instincts remain sharp.

This past season with PSV Eindhoven, Pepi scored 19 goals and added two assists across 31 games despite recovering from injury, demonstrating his goal-scoring ability. To suit Pepi’s strengths, the USMNT might focus on delivering ground passes for him to chase, hoping to exploit Belgium’s tired defense after their lengthy match versus Senegal.

Haji Wright: Physical Presence Up Front

For a more physical option, Haji Wright could step in. The Coventry City forward recently helped his team earn promotion to the Premier League by scoring 17 goals in 31 Championship matches. Wright offers aerial threat and strength but lacks the speed of Balogun or Pepi.

His ability to wear down defenders through physicality might create space for other attackers later in the game. However, fitness concerns arise as Wright has not played more than 70 minutes since late April and only brief minutes since early May, raising questions about match readiness under intense summer conditions.

Brenden Aaronson with Tactical Tweaks

Brenden Aaronson is not a striker by trade but could provide a tactical solution. Known for his versatility and experience in the English Premier League with Leeds United, Aaronson could move to the left wing, allowing Christian Pulisic to take a central attacking role without a traditional striker.

This unconventional approach might surprise Belgium and offer the USMNT a new dynamic, though it would require manager Mauricio Pochettino to depart from usual formations. Aaronson's ability to handle pressure and adapt quickly makes this a plausible, if less orthodox, option.