Folarin Balogun Scores, Impresses Fans as USMNT Rally for Draw vs. Ecuador

The United States Men's National Team tied Ecuador 1-1 in an international friendly on Friday in Austin, Texas.

After trailing for most of the match, the U.S. equalized in the 71st minute with a goal from Folarin Balogun. In a surprise move, manager Mauricio Pochettino brought in Christian Pulisic just two minutes later, marking his first appearance after sitting the entire game.

Fans praised Balogun and the USMNT for their resilience, earning a draw against Ecuador after a strong comeback goal.

The U.S. picked up two early yellow cards for rough fouls, sandwiched around Ecuador's 24th-minute goal — a shot to the bottom left corner from Enner Valencia, assisted by John Yeboah on a fast break. 

Balogun equalized for the U.S. in the 71st minute with a close-range shot to the bottom right corner, assisted by Malik Tillman, sparking energy for Team USA and prompting substitutions of Pulisic and Haji Wright to boost the attack.

Despite added pressure and extra time, the USMNT could not find the back of the net, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.

The USMNT will face Australia in another international friendly on Tuesday in Commerce City, Colorado.