Nigeria, June 20 -- Nigerian-rooted forward Folarin Balogun delivered another influential performance as the United States became one of the first teams to book a place in the knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over Australia.

Balogun, who switched allegiance from England to the United States despite his Nigerian heritage, led the American attack with a tireless display in Seattle. The striker recorded 33 touches, completed nine passes, won three duels and registered two shots as the hosts secured a second consecutive victory in Group D.

The result confirmed the United States' place in the Round of 32 and guaranteed them top spot in the group following Paraguay's 1-0 victory over Turkiye later in the...