The United States began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding performance. They defeated Paraguay 4-1 on Friday night at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Striker Folarin Balogun scored two goals to lead the charge in front of a sellout home crowd.
Damian Bobadilla turned the ball into his own net in the seventh minute. The own goal handed the US an immediate advantage. Christian Pulisic then delivered a strong first-half display. He created multiple chances before he left the match at halftime because of a calf concern.
Folarin Balogun netted his first goal in the 31st minute. He finished clinically after good build-up play. Balogun added his second just before halftime. He controlled a long pass, evaded a defender, and hammered a left-footed shot into the top corner. The two goals gave the US a 3-0 lead at the break. Balogun became the first American to score twice in a World Cup match since 1930.
Paraguay pulled one goal back in the second half through Mauricio. The visitors showed fight, yet they could not close the gap. Giovanni Reyna then sealed the result with a stoppage-time goal. His strike made the final score 4-1.
US coach Mauricio Pochettino watched his team deliver a statement win in their opening Group D fixture. The victory marked the Americans’ biggest World Cup win and put them atop the group standings. Fans and celebrities filled the stadium for the co-hosts’ historic home opener after 32 years.
