Folarin Balogun scored twice as the United States opened its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles on Friday.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side dominated from the start and took the lead in the seventh minute when Paraguay defender Damián Bobadilla turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the American attack.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 31st minute. Christian Pulisic drove forward and found Balogun, who finished confidently to make it 2-0.
Balogun struck again deep into first-half stoppage time. The striker beat his marker with a clever run before firing a powerful shot past the goalkeeper to give the United States a 3-0 lead at the break.
Paraguay showed more fight in the second half and reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute through Mauricio. The goal briefly gave the visitors hope, but the United States remained in control and continued to create chances.
The final blow came in the sixth minute of stoppage time. Substitute Giovanni Reyna capped a superb team performance with a brilliant right-footed strike. The midfielder cut in from the right and sent his shot into the left side of the net to make it 4-1.
The late goal was the perfect finish to an outstanding display from the hosts. Pochettino’s men looked sharp in attack, organised in defence and full of confidence throughout the match.
The victory puts the United States in a strong position in Group D and gives the co-hosts an ideal start to their quest for a deep run at the World Cup.
