USA Dominates Paraguay in FIFA World Cup 2026 Opener
USA's Strong Start in World Cup 2026
Photo: @JacobsBen/X
California, June 13: Folarin Balogun scored two goals as the United States kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey with a convincing 4-1 win over Paraguay during their Group D match at SoFi Stadium on Saturday.
This marked the first time since 1994 that the U.S. hosted a World Cup match, and they quickly took charge, limiting Paraguay's opportunities. An early own goal by Damian Bobadilla set the stage for the Americans. Balogun's two first-half goals solidified their dominance.
Although Paraguay managed to score through Mauricio in the second half, Gio Reyna's stunning goal in stoppage time ensured a strong start for the U.S., earning them three crucial points.
The match began perfectly for the hosts just seven minutes in when Bobadilla inadvertently redirected Weston McKennie's dangerous pass into his own net.
This early advantage allowed the U.S. to control the game and apply pressure on Paraguay, who struggled to cope with the American attack, particularly with Christian Pulisic playing a key role in their offensive efforts.
Balogun had a goal disallowed for offside before he found the net in the 31st minute, finishing a well-placed pass from Pulisic to make it 2-0.
He then scored a spectacular goal just before halftime, cutting inside two defenders and curling a shot into the top corner, giving the U.S. a commanding 3-0 lead.
Pochettino substituted Pulisic at halftime, and while the U.S. created fewer chances in the second half, they maintained control of the match.
Paraguay increased their urgency and managed to score in the 74th minute when Julio Enciso set up Mauricio, who found the net with a low shot, providing a glimmer of hope for the South American side.
However, the U.S. quickly extinguished any comeback hopes. Substitute Ricardo Pepi nearly restored the three-goal lead but was denied by goalkeeper Orlando Gil.
Reyna ultimately sealed the victory deep into stoppage time, scoring with an impressive outside-of-the-boot shot that sailed past Gil.
This win temporarily places the United States at the top of Group D, ahead of Türkiye's match against Australia later that day. The U.S. will next face Australia in Seattle on June 19, while Paraguay will look to recover against Türkiye on the same date.