USMNT claim record victory over Paraguay to top Group D
The United States men’s national team secured their largest winning margin in tournament history, equalling a record set in 1930, as they opened their 2026 campaign with a commanding display in Inglewood.
The United States men’s national team began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a decisive 4-1 victory over Paraguay at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California. The result, attended by 70,492 spectators, marks the first World Cup fixture hosted on US soil since 1994. The win places the Americans at the top of Group D, establishing their highest goal tally in a single tournament match and equaling their largest winning margin in World Cup history, a record previously set in 1930.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino received a rating of 7/10 for selecting his first-choice XI, a decision bolstered by the return of Chris Richards from injury. The match began with an own goal from Paraguay’s Damián Bobadilla, followed by two strikes from Folarin Balogun, which saw the USMNT build a three-goal lead by halftime. Paraguay’s Mauricio scored a consolation goal in the second half before Giovanni Reyna added a late strike in the 82nd minute to secure the final scoreline.
Performance analysis from ESPN highlights Balogun and Christian Pulisic as the team’s best performers, both receiving ratings of 8/10. Balogun’s brace was instrumental in the first-half dominance, while Pulisic provided creativity and danger from the left wing. Midfielder Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman also earned strong ratings of 7/10 for their versatility and ability to control space, with Tillman providing the key through ball for Balogun’s second goal.
Defensively, the USMNT showed resilience despite some early vulnerabilities. Goalkeeper Matt Freese received a rating of 4/10 for his first real test in the opening minutes, while Chris Richards was rated 5/10 after being beaten on the ball that led to Paraguay’s goal. However, Antonee Robinson and Tim Ream both received ratings of 6/10, with Robinson’s pace and positioning cited as a significant threat down the left flank.
With the victory, the USMNT is now in a strong position to advance to the knockout rounds. The team faces a critical juncture in Group D on Saturday when Australia and Türkiye are scheduled to play their opener. The result sets a positive tone for the Americans as they look to maintain their momentum in the North American phase of the tournament.
