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

The United States men’s national team confronts a major test in the World Cup round of 16. Since 2002, they have not progressed beyond this stage. Although reaching it was viewed by many as the minimum expectation for 2026, the way the USMNT dominated Group D and edged Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 has sparked serious hopes of a deep tournament run.

The team has only won a round of 16 match once before, 24 years ago, during their only quarterfinal appearance. Back then, the U.S. overcame Mexico but fell to Germany afterward. Their best-ever World Cup finish remains a semifinal spot in the inaugural 1930 tournament, where only four teams entered the knockout phase.

After defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0, confidence is high that the USMNT can make history on home soil. Yet, star striker Folarin Balogun will miss the upcoming clash with Belgium due to a red card received in the previous round.

Balogun scored three of the U.S.’ 10 goals so far in this tournament. With him sidelined, here are three players who might fill his role:

Ricardo Pepi

Ricardo Pepi looks like the most natural replacement. He played briefly against Bosnia and Herzegovina as a late substitute, bringing energy to the attack. At 23, he is on his second World Cup and has long been seen as a potential key attacker. His scoring record internationally is inconsistent, though.

Balogun fits manager Mauricio Pochettino’s style well, but Pepi’s defensive work rate has limited his starting chances. Offensively, Pepi’s skills and goal threat are in the same league as Balogun’s, though less versatile and physically imposing.

In the 2026-27 season, Pepi netted 19 goals and provided two assists across 31 appearances for PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie and Champions League, bouncing back from injuries like a broken arm. This output had him competing for a starting spot this summer.

Pepi’s game might require more ground passes for him to chase with his long strides, hoping to outpace Belgium’s defenders Arthur Theate and Brandon Mechele. The U.S. forward will be rested, while Belgium’s defense just endured 120 tough minutes versus Senegal.

Though not as multifaceted as Balogun, Pepi has scored 13 times in 40 matches for the USMNT and can find the net.

Haji Wright

If the USMNT wants someone with a stronger physical presence closer to Balogun’s style, Haji Wright is an option. The Coventry City striker is set to join the Premier League next season after scoring 17 goals in 31 games, helping his team win promotion.

Wright brings a powerful frame and aerial ability but lacks the pace of Pepi or Balogun. His strength could wear down Belgian defenders early, potentially opening space for Pepi or others later.

Fitness and sharpness may be concerns; Wright hasn’t played more than 70 minutes since late April and saw under 15 minutes of action after early May.

Brenden Aaronson With Tactical Changes

Brenden Aaronson isn’t a traditional striker and had a quiet performance in the loss to Türkiye, but with some tactical shifts, he could help fill the gap. Aaronson’s versatility and experience in England’s Premier League make him unafraid of big moments.

A possible move would slide Aaronson to the left wing while pushing Christian Pulisic into a central forward role, starting without a classic striker. Though unconventional for coach Mauricio Pochettino, this approach might catch Belgium off guard and create new attacking threats.