Folarin Balogun was on target for the second straight match as the United States held Ecuador to a 1-1 draw in Austin.
The striker, who also scored in his country’s 2-0 win over Japan last month, scored the equalizer in the second half at the Q2 Stadium, where Enner Valencia had given the visitors the lead.
Both sides were narrowly off target early on. Jordy Alcivar fired a low shot just wide in the fifth minute, while Balogun’s curling effort was inches from the top corner.
It was the visitors who struck first in the 24th minute after a quick counter with John Yeboah finding Valencia, who fired past goalkeeper Matt Freese from just inside the penalty area.
The USA came close to an equalizer shortly afterwards, with Hernan Galindez saving Chris Richards’ fierce half-volley, before Balogun fired narrowly wide just before half-time.
However, the Monaco forward brought Mauricio Pochettino’s team back on level terms 19 minutes before the end and turned in Malik Tillman’s cross from close range.
Back-to-back games with a goal for Folarin Balogun!pic.twitter.com/gcfVaJpykF
— United States Men’s National Soccer Team (@USMNT) October 11, 2025
Data Debrief: Impressive stadium streak in Q2 ends for Stars and Stripes
Ecuador, who finished second behind Argentina in recent CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, extended their unbeaten run to 12 games while conceding just three goals under coach Sebastian Beccacece.
Top scorer Valencia broke the deadlock with his 48th goal in his 101st cap, moving him level with Ulises de la Cruz on La Tri’s list of all-time leading performances.
And Balogun became one of two players to debut in 1995 or later and record a goal contribution in 11 of his first 17 American starts (after Clint Mathis).
However, the Stars and Stripes saw their impeccable record end at the Q2 Stadium. Indeed, prior to this match, they had all won six of their matches played there without setbacks.
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