Real Madrid's woe could be Folarin Balogun's UCL gain

Real Madrid is experiencing a severe crisis in early 2026. Following a poor run of form, club legend and coach Xabi Alonso was sacked in early January. His replacement, former player Alvaro Arbeloa, failed to improve results, losing his first game in charge to a struggling second-division side. Fans are booing relentlessly, prompting threats of bans from club management. Owner Florentino Perez has publicly suggested solving defensive issues by signing striker Erling Haaland, adding to the sense of chaos. As the most successful club in European history, Real Madrid is currently vulnerable on all fronts.

This turmoil presents a prime opportunity for opponents, including AS Monaco and their striker, United States Men's National Team player Folarin Balogun. Monaco is set to face Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday, January 20, with a win bringing them closer to qualifying for the Round of 16. Balogun emphasized that the team's objective is qualification, not just enjoying the experience.

Balogun enters the match in exceptional form, having scored in each of his last three Champions League appearances against Galatasaray, Pafos, and Bodo/Glimt. This makes him the first American player in Champions League history to achieve such a feat. His goals have showcased a diverse skill set: a spectacular tight-angled finish, a clever poacher's effort from a goalkeeper error, and a determined goalmouth scramble, demonstrating skill, intelligence, and grit.

Real Madrid's recent defensive vulnerabilities align alarmingly with Balogun's strengths. Their humiliating 3-2 loss to second-division Albacete featured goals similar to Balogun's recent strikes: a tight-angled shot, an error-driven solo effort, and a scramble. Coach Arbeloa labeled the performance a "tragedy," while defender Dani Carvajal called it "rock bottom." Madrid's likely defensive lineup, featuring Den Huijsen, Raul Asencio, and Federico Valverde out of position at right-back, appears susceptible.

With his strong recent record and facing a floundering opponent, Balogun is positioned for a potential breakthrough performance. He acknowledges that at this level, ruthlessness is required. The match is scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, at 3:00 p.m. ET.