The United States kicked off their home campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in stunning fashion, thrashing Paraguay 4-1 in front of a star-studded crowd at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
Former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun emerged as the hero of the night, scoring twice as Mauricio Pochettino’s side delivered a commanding performance to claim all three points in their Group D opener.
The hosts made an electric start, with relentless pressure forcing Paraguay midfielder Damian Bobadilla into an own goal in the seventh minute. Balogun then struck twice to put the Americans firmly in control before substitute Gio Reyna added a fourth goal late in the game to cap a memorable evening.
The emphatic victory comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the US team following a string of disappointing results in pre-World Cup friendlies. However, Friday’s dominant display erased doubts about the co-hosts’ ability to compete on the global stage.
“It was just a great start from the guys, captain Christian Pulisic said after the match.
“The team came out with so much energy. It was a deserved win, but it’s only the beginning. We have a lot more to do and need to be ready for the next game.”
The atmosphere inside the 70,492-capacity stadium was electric, with pop star Katy Perry delivering a pre-match performance while Hollywood stars including Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio and Halle Berry watched from the stands.
Balogun, who represented England at youth level before committing his international future to the United States, proved unstoppable as the Americans overwhelmed Paraguay with pace, intensity and attacking flair.
The only setback for Pochettino’s men came in the 73rd minute when Brazil-born striker Mauricio pulled one back for Paraguay after a lapse in the US defence.
The impressive victory has boosted hopes of a deep run for the Americans, who now turn their attention to crucial Group D clashes against Australia and Turkey.
