Co-hosts United States made a dream start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay on Friday, powered by a brace from Folarin Balogun and a late strike from Giovanni Reyna.
Playing in front of a sold-out crowd of 70,492 in Los Angeles, the United States seized control early and never looked back, putting themselves in a strong position in Group D, which also features Australia and Turkey.
The hosts took the lead after just seven minutes when a dangerous attacking move ended with Paraguay midfielder Damián Bobadilla turning the ball into his own net under pressure.
The breakthrough sparked a dominant first-half display from the Americans, who controlled possession and repeatedly exposed Paraguay’s defence.
Balogun thought he had doubled the lead midway through the half, but his effort was ruled out for offside. The striker was not denied for long, however, finding the net three minutes later after excellent work down the left by Antonee Robinson and Christian Pulisic.
The AS Monaco forward struck again just before halftime, producing a clinical finish after weaving past defenders to give the United States a 3-0 advantage.
The Americans nearly extended their lead further before the break, with Chris Richards heading narrowly wide as the hosts finished the opening 45 minutes with 75 percent possession.
There was concern for the home side when captain Pulisic was replaced at halftime. The playmaker had been carrying a fitness issue heading into the tournament, and his withdrawal will be closely monitored ahead of the remaining group-stage matches.
Paraguay showed more attacking intent after the interval and pulled a goal back through substitute Mauricio after good work from Julio Enciso.
Any hopes of a comeback were ended deep into stoppage time when Reyna produced a moment of quality, curling a superb effort into the far corner with the outside of his right foot to complete the scoring.
The victory gives the United States an ideal start to their home World Cup and boosts confidence ahead of crucial group matches as they seek their deepest tournament run since reaching the quarter-finals in 2002.
The match also attracted a host of celebrities, including Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio and Paris Hilton, while the pre-match opening ceremony featured performances from Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta and Lisa.
The result leaves the United States top of Group D after the opening round of matches and strengthens hopes of a successful World Cup campaign on home soil.
