Balogun Scores Brace In Seven-goal Thriller As Arsenal Beat Monaco U23s

Folarin Balogun was the cynosure of all eyes at the Meadow Park, Borehamwood on Tuesday night, scoring a brace for Arsenal in a 4-3 win over AS Monaco in their Premier League International Cup clash.

As many as six Nigeria-eligible youngsters took to the field for the Gunners this evening; Tolaji Bola, Miguel Azeez, David Oyegoke and Balogun all starting while Ryan Alebiosu and Tobi Omole were thrown into the fray in the second half.

Balogun looked exciting to watch in the thriller, converting from the spot after Sam Greenwood was felled in the area in the 69th minute to bring the scoreline to 3-3.

He would now take matters into his hands in the second minute of stoppage time, chipping a sumptuous finish past goalkeeper Jeremi Abonnel for the game's decider.

Azeez made way for Omole after 46 minutes of play, while Alebiosu came on for Trae Coyle in the 56th minute.

Arsenal's reward for the victory is a semifinal berth where they will take on West Ham or Derby County in their bid to win the prestigious youth competition.