FIFA World Cup 2026: Host USA thrash Paraguay 4-1 in their opening clash
California, June 13
Host United States opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign dominantly, securing a 4-1 victory over Paraguay on Friday, powered by a standout performance from Folarin Balogun and Christian Pulisic.
Balogun scored twice, while Pulisic delivered a commanding display, constantly troubling the Paraguayan defence and playing a key role in multiple attacking moves as the hosts controlled proceedings from the start.
The USA took an early lead in the 7th minute when Pulisic split the defence with a brilliant pass to Weston McKennie, which ultimately resulted in Damian Bobadilla turning the ball into his own net. Balogun then doubled the advantage in the 31st minute, finishing a precise cross from Pulisic.
The forward added his second goal deep into stoppage time (90+8'), dribbling past two defenders before sealing a comfortable win for the hosts, who were in full control throughout the match.
Paraguay briefly reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute through Mauricio Magalhães, but failed to mount a sustained comeback against a dominant US side.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino opted to rest Pulisic at half-time, replacing him with Sebastian Berhalter, as the USA managed their squad with an eye on a long tournament ahead.
Late in the match, Gio Reyna added further gloss to the scoreline with a stunning strike from distance, finding the top corner to cap off an emphatic opening win for the hosts.
In another Group fixture, Canada began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Cyle Larin scoring a late equaliser in the 78th minute to rescue a point.
The United States will next face their upcoming Group opponent in Seattle, while Canada will take on Qatar in their next match in Vancouver.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Pochettino resting Pulisic at half-time? In a World Cup opener? That's some bold management. Americans are getting smart about squad rotation, unlike our cricket selectors who run players into the ground. And that Gio Reyna goal - what a rocket! Total top bin stuff. Paraguay had no answer to US pace.
Finally, a World Cup where the US is actually competitive! They've come a long way since 1994. But I worry about these lopsided matches - 4-1 doesn't make for exciting viewing. Reminds me of when Brazil thrashed us 5-0 in the 1950s. 😅
As an Indian football fan, I watch these matches and dream about what could be. The US invested in their youth system 20 years ago and now here they are hosting and winning convincingly. Meanwhile, our AIFF is still fighting elections. At least we have the ISL producing some talent. Baby steps, I guess. 🇮🇳⚽
USA! USA! 🇺🇸 Balogun is a proper striker, and Pulisic is world-class when fit. 4-1 is a statement win. But let's not get carried away - Paraguay isn't exactly Brazil or Argentina. Canada drawing with Bosnia is interesting though. North American football is definitely on the rise!
Respect to the US team for their professionalism. But I think resting Pulisic at half-time was a bit disrespectful to Paraguay. In Indian cricket,
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