Balogun scores but Monaco lose 3-1 to Paris FC

Folarin Balogun found the net on Sunday, but his goal could not prevent Monaco from losing 3-1 to Paris FC. The American striker scored Monaco’s only goal, his first since the World Cup, where he had scored in the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The goal comes after several months of uncertainty for the player.

Monaco struggled to create clear chances in the first half. Paris Brunner sent his side’s only attempt wide, while Paris FC kept up the pressure and scored twice just before the break. After half-time, Monaco found space down the right through a run by Vanderson. Balogun made a run into the channels and, with a simple touch, directed the ball towards the far post. The goal narrowed the gap but did not change the result.

The strike is an early sign of a possible recovery for Balogun after a summer that weighed on his career. His World Cup breakthrough was overshadowed by a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by a controversy he wanted no part in. Two days after that match, he called the red-card episode “surreal”, while refusing to portray himself as a victim. His message, as reported at the time, was to show the next generation “the correct way to handle things, even when you think it’s unjust.”

At Monaco, chances to move forward have been limited. Manager Filipe Luís has preferred Paris Brunner, a 20-year-old German youth international, and Balogun was left out of Monaco’s squad for the UEFA Conference League. His involvement is therefore limited to domestic competitions. Balogun also called off a possible move to Everton after visiting the training ground and undergoing a medical that he felt had been handled improperly. Many expect him to move in January, to the Premier League or elsewhere, while Monaco has prepared for life without him.

Last season, Balogun finished fourth in Ligue 1’s scoring charts with 13 goals for Monaco, adding six more in the Champions League and Coupe de France. His goal against Paris FC does not settle the question of his place in the team, but it is a reminder that he can still make an impact when supplied with the ball and trusted by his manager. More playing time will also be needed if he is to regain a starting role.