Los Angeles: The United States began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a commanding 4 1 victory over Paraguay in front of a packed crowd at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Friday night. The result gave the tournament co hosts a perfect start and raised hopes that the team could make a deep run in the competition.
More than 70,000 fans filled the stadium and created an electric atmosphere as the home side delivered one of the most memorable World Cup performances in the nation's history. Led by coach Mauricio Pochettino, the Americans played with confidence, energy and attacking intent from the opening whistle.
The breakthrough came just seven minutes into the match when Paraguay's Damian Bobadilla accidentally turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous attack. The early goal lifted the United States and put immediate pressure on the South American side.
The Americans continued to dominate possession and create chances. Their attacking play was rewarded when striker Folarin Balogun found the net twice before halftime. His sharp finishing and intelligent movement troubled Paraguay's defence throughout the opening period. Balogun's brace not only helped put the match beyond Paraguay's reach but also secured his place in the record books. He became the first American player since the 1930 World Cup to score two goals in a single World Cup match.
Christian Pulisic, the team's captain and creative force, played a key role in the first half. His movement and passing helped create opportunities and maintain pressure on Paraguay. However, there was some concern for American supporters when he was substituted at halftime because of calf tightness. Early reports suggested the move was precautionary, and Pulisic later expressed confidence that he would be ready for the team's next match.
Paraguay attempted to respond after the break and briefly gave themselves hope when substitute Mauricio scored in the second half. The goal reduced the deficit and encouraged the South American side to push forward in search of another breakthrough.
Any hopes of a comeback were eventually ended when Giovanni Reyna scored the United States' fourth goal late in the match. His finish capped a superb evening for the hosts and sent the crowd into celebration.
The victory was significant for more than just the three points. It marked the first time the United States had scored four goals in a World Cup match. Football analysts and former players described the performance as one of the strongest displays by an American team on the sport's biggest stage.
After the match, Pochettino praised the collective effort of his players and highlighted the importance of teamwork. He said the performance reflected the hard work done by the squad in preparation for the tournament and showed the unity within the group.
The result places the United States in a strong position in Group D. Their next challenge will come against Australia on June 19 before a final group stage match against Turkey. Paraguay, meanwhile, must quickly regroup as they prepare for a crucial encounter with Turkey.
For American supporters, the opening victory has generated fresh optimism. With Balogun in excellent form and a talented squad playing attractive football, the United States have announced themselves as serious contenders capable of causing problems for some of the tournament's biggest teams.