Monaco couldn’t have hoped for a better kickoff against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League playoffs, as American striker Folarin Balogun found the net less than a minute into the match with a perfectly executed header. After a precise cross from Aleksandr Golovin, Balogun redirected the ball towards goal, promptly putting his team in front. He followed up with a second strike in the 18th minute of play. Despite his efforts, Monaco ultimately fell short, losing 3-2 at home, but his performance sets the stage for an exciting second leg at Parc de Princes on Wednesday, February 26 (watch it live on Paramount+).

Here’s a highlight of Balogun’s second goal:

FOLARIN BALOGUN AT THE DOUBLE 🇺🇸💥
Less than twenty minutes in and the USMNT striker has the European champions stunned in Monaco 😤 pic.twitter.com/eKJmu6APom
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 17, 2026

These goals mark Balogun’s fourth and fifth in the Champions League this season, bringing his total to ten competitive goals for the club as he grows in confidence. Although these were his first goals of 2026, they couldn’t have come at a more critical moment, offering Monaco a solid chance to advance in the knockout phase of the tournament.

An 18-minute brace wasn’t enough

Despite the strong opening, Monaco conceded three consecutive goals, ending the match on a disappointing note. The red card issued to Golovin, who assisted Balogun’s initial goal, compounded their difficulties. After Ousmane Dembele’s injury forced him from the pitch, Desire Doue made an immediate impact, scoring upon his first touch before adding another goal and an assist. Yet, Balogun’s impressive start gives Monaco hope for the second leg, with only a one-goal deficit to overcome.

Balogun with ice in his veins

With more Champions League goals than goals in Ligue 1, the 24-year-old is solidifying his status as a clutch performer for Monaco. Following a successful camp for the United States men’s national team in November, Coach Mauricio Pochettino will be pleased to witness this form as the World Cup approaches in 2026 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Just as Monaco seeks every bit of productivity from Balogun to challenge PSG, the USMNT will rely on him to thrive in the World Cup. A repeat performance in the next leg could see Monaco stage a surprise and secure progression into the round of 16.