Folarin Balogun netted two goals as the United States began their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey impressively with a 4-1 triumph over Paraguay in Group D at SoFi Stadium in California. The American team, playing a World Cup game at home for the first time since 1994, dominated from the outset, with an early own goal by Damian Bobadilla setting the tone. Balogun’s brace in the first half firmly placed Mauricio Pochettino’s side in control.
Despite a goal from Mauricio for Paraguay in the second half, a late strike by Gio Reyna secured a convincing victory for the Americans, earning them three crucial points. The hosts took an early lead just seven minutes into the game when Bobadilla inadvertently scored an own goal while attempting to clear Weston McKennie’s pass.
The United States capitalized on this advantage, maintaining possession and pressuring Paraguay throughout the match. Paraguay struggled to contain the dynamic American offense, with Christian Pulisic orchestrating many of the attacking moves. Balogun, initially denied a goal due to offside, later extended the lead to 2-0 in the 31st minute with a clinical finish off Pulisic’s well-placed pass.
In a standout moment before halftime, Balogun showcased his skills by cutting inside two defenders and curling a magnificent shot into the top corner, giving the United States a commanding 3-0 lead. Although Paraguay reduced the deficit in the second half through Mauricio, Reyna’s late goal sealed the victory for the Americans.
The win temporarily places the United States at the top of Group D, pending Türkiye’s match against Australia. The American team’s next challenge will be against Australia in Seattle on June 19, while Paraguay will face Türkiye on the same day.
