USMNT secures historic 4-1 victory over Paraguay in World Cup opener
The United States men’s national team began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding win at SoFi Stadium, setting a new benchmark for their tournament record.
The United States men’s national team commenced 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. The win places the hosts in a favourable position in Group D, which also includes Australia and Turkiye.
Folarin Balogun made history on his international debut, becoming the first US player to score multiple goals in a World Cup match. His brace, combined with an own goal by Paraguay’s Damian Bobadilla and a late strike from Gio Reyna, secured the comprehensive victory. The match was attended by 70,492 spectators, including celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Paris Hilton.
The opening goal arrived in the seventh minute following a pass from Weston McKennie, which was bundled into his own net by Bobadilla. Balogun added a second goal in the 31st minute, capitalising on a deflection from Christian Pulisic’s cross, before curling a third just before half-time. The US dominated the first half with 75 percent possession, creating numerous chances including a header from Chris Richards that missed the target by a narrow margin.
A potential sour note emerged at half-time when US captain Christian Pulisic withdrew due to injury. Without Pulisic, the US momentum dipped, allowing Paraguay to increase their threat. Julio Enciso, starting despite a hamstring injury, set up substitute Mauricio to score a consolation goal in the second half. However, Reyna restored the three-goal cushion in the eighth minute of stoppage time with a curling strike.
The match followed an opening ceremony featuring performances by Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta, and Lisa. US President Donald Trump did not attend the event but sent a message wishing the team luck. The USMNT will next face Australia in Seattle on June 19, aiming to extend their perfect start to the group stage.
