Folarin Balogun Backs Nigeria’s Bid to Host 2042 FIFA World Cup
Monaco striker Folarin Balogun has publicly expressed his hope that Nigeria will one day stage football’s biggest tournament. Born in New York and raised in London to Nigerian parents of Yoruba heritage, the 24-year-old forward proudly embraces his African roots. Despite pledging his international allegiance to the United States and now playing under coach Mauricio Pochettino as the USMNT gears up for the 2026 World Cup, Balogun says his heart still beats for Nigeria’s football future. Under FIFA’s current rotation rules, Africa’s next standalone hosting opportunity won’t come until the 2042 edition. Balogun believes this gives Nigeria time to prepare a winning bid and showcase the country on the world stage.
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