The United States could not have asked for a better start to its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
Playing in front of a packed home crowd at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, the USMNT produced an attacking masterclass to defeat Paraguay 4-1 in their Group D opener. Folarin Balogun starred with two goals, while Giovanni Reyna added a late stunner as Mauricio Pochettino's side announced itself as a serious contender in the tournament.
USA vs Paraguay: Full-Time Score
USA 4-1 Paraguay
Goal Scorers
USA
Folarin Balogun (2)
Damián Bobadilla (Own Goal)
Giovanni Reyna
Paraguay
Mauricio
Balogun Leads Early US Dominance
The hosts came flying out of the blocks and never allowed Paraguay to settle.
Christian Pulisic pulled the strings in attack, creating chances and helping the United States establish complete control in the opening half. Balogun finished clinically twice, while pressure from the American attack forced Paraguay's Damián Bobadilla into an unfortunate own goal. By halftime, the United States had raced into a commanding 3-0 lead.
The three-goal cushion reflected the difference between the two sides, with the Americans pressing aggressively and moving the ball with confidence.
Paraguay Shows Fight After the Break
Paraguay improved after halftime and found a breakthrough through Maurício, who punished a rare lapse in the American defense.
For a brief period, the South Americans looked capable of making the contest interesting. However, the United States quickly regained control and prevented Paraguay from building momentum.
Gio Reyna Caps the Night in Style
With stoppage time approaching, Giovanni Reyna delivered the moment of the match.
The midfielder collected the ball outside the area, surged forward and curled a brilliant effort past the goalkeeper to make it 4-1. The goal sent the home crowd into celebration mode and put the finishing touch on a memorable opening-night victory.
Top Performers for USA
Folarin Balogun
The striker was the standout player on the field, scoring twice and constantly troubling Paraguay's defense. His brace earned him Player of the Match honors.
Christian Pulisic
Although he did not get on the scoresheet, Pulisic was central to the attacking play and helped create the first two goals.
Weston McKennie
McKennie controlled the midfield battle and helped the United States dictate the tempo throughout the contest.
Giovanni Reyna
His spectacular late goal capped a strong performance and highlighted the depth of attacking talent available to the Americans.
Key Match Stats and Talking Points
USA scored four goals in a World Cup match for the first time in team history.
The Americans led 3-0 at halftime after a dominant opening 45 minutes.
Folarin Balogun finished with two goals.
Giovanni Reyna scored in stoppage time to seal the victory.
Paraguay's only goal came through Maurício in the second half.
What This Result Means
The convincing win gives the United States three crucial points in Group D and immediately boosts confidence among fans dreaming of a deep World Cup run on home soil.
Under Mauricio Pochettino, the USMNT looked organized, aggressive and clinical—qualities that could make them one of the most dangerous teams in the competition. Paraguay, meanwhile, will need a quick response in their next group-stage match to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive.
