USMNT tops Group D with record 4-1 victory over Paraguay in World Cup opener
Folarin Balogun’s brace and a historic winning margin mark the United States’ strongest start to a World Cup campaign since 1930.
The United States Men’s National Team secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, establishing themselves at the top of Group D. Played at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, the result marks the first time the US has scored four goals in a World Cup fixture and equals their largest winning margin in the tournament, a record previously set in 1930.
The match began with an early disruption to Paraguay’s structure when Damián Bobadilla turned a Weston McKennie cross into his own net in the seventh minute. Folarin Balogun then assumed control of the first half, scoring in the 30th minute and adding a second in stoppage time to give the co-hosts a 2-0 lead. Balogun’s brace ensured the US scored as many goals in the first half alone as they did in their entire 2022 World Cup campaign.
Paraguay attempted to mount a response early in the second half, but proceedings were halted by a significant Video Assistant Referee intervention. Officials overturned a yellow card issued to US defender Tim Ream and revoked a free kick for Paraguay after confirming that Miguel Almirón had dived. The visitors eventually reduced the deficit in the 70th minute through Maurício, who converted an assist from Julio Enciso, but the goal did little to alter the trajectory of the match.
The United States closed out the contest with a late strike from Gio Reyna in the 97th minute, cementing the record-breaking nature of the performance. Manager Mauricio Pochettino’s side utilised a back three featuring Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Alex Freeman, allowing Christian Pulisic to create two big chances and complete three of five dribbles. Balogun was substituted in the 71st minute, likely as a protective measure given his pivotal role.
The victory extends the US’s 19-year unbeaten run against Paraguay and provides a strong foundation for the co-hosts as they prepare to face Australia in their next Group D match. While the on-field performance was described as ruthless and unforgiving, the result also highlights the contrast between the team’s tactical evolution and the mixed public engagement surrounding the tournament in the host nation.
