Co-hosts the United States made a dream start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening Group D match at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
The Americans took an early lead through a Paraguay own goal before striker Folarin Balogun stole the spotlight with two first-half goals. Giovanni Reyna added a late fourth goal to seal an emphatic win for the hosts.
Balogun’s brace made history, as he became the first United States player since 1930 to score twice in a World Cup match. The victory also marked the first time the U.S. has scored four goals in a FIFA World Cup game.
The result gives Mauricio Pochettino’s side an ideal start in front of a sold-out home crowd and strengthens their chances of progressing to the knockout stages. The United States will next face Australia, while Paraguay take on Türkiye in their second group-stage fixtures.
