USMNT secure historic 4-1 victory over Paraguay in World Cup opener

The United States opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a decisive 4-1 victory over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The result marks the first time the USMNT has scored four goals in a single World Cup fixture and equals their largest winning margin in the tournament, a record previously established in 1930. Folarin Balogun made history on his international debut by scoring twice, becoming the first US player to achieve multiple goals on a World Cup debut.

The match began with an early surge from the hosts, who took the lead within seven minutes following an own goal by Paraguay’s Damian Bobadilla. Balogun added a second goal shortly after, capitalising on a deflected cross from Christian Pulisic, before curling a precise shot into the top corner just before half-time. The US controlled the first half with 75 per cent possession, creating numerous chances including a disallowed goal for Balogun and a near-miss from Chris Richards, who returned from injury.

Paraguay struggled to contain the American attack until the second half, where they managed to pull a goal back through substitute Maurício, assisted by Julio Enciso, who started despite a hamstring injury. However, Gio Reyna sealed the victory late in stoppage time with a curling strike, ensuring the hosts maintained their dominance. The performance placed the US in a favourable position in Group D, which also includes Australia and Turkey.

A significant concern emerged when US captain Christian Pulisic withdrew at half-time due to injury. Pulisic, who is carrying the hopes of the nation as they attempt a deep run into the World Cup knockouts for the first time since their quarter-final appearance in 2002, was instrumental in the early buildup play before his departure. The team also benefited from a VAR intervention that overturned a yellow card issued to defender Tim Ream for a tackle on Miguel Almirón.

The match featured a high-profile opening ceremony with performances by Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta, and Lisa, attended by a sold-out crowd of 70,492, including celebrities such as Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio. US President Donald Trump did not attend the match but sent a phone message wishing the team luck. The victory serves as a strong statement from the co-hosts as they look to build momentum in the tournament.