Omanghana
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) made a commanding start to its 2026 FIFA World Cup journey with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay on Friday, June 12, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
Fueled by an explosive attacking display and clinical finishing, the Americans thrilled the home crowd by securing all three points in their opening Group D fixture, establishing themselves as early contenders in the tournament.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
The United States wasted little time asserting control of the match. In the seventh minute, Christian Pulisic sparked the opening breakthrough with a dangerous attacking run before finding Weston McKennie, whose pass into the penalty area deflected off Paraguayan defender Damián Bobadilla and into the net for an own goal.
The early advantage energized the hosts, who continued to press forward with confidence and creativity.
Balogun Delivers a First-Half Masterclass
Forward Folarin Balogun doubled the lead in the 31st minute after expertly finishing a low cross from Pulisic. The striker showcased his composure in front of goal, calmly side-footing the ball past the Paraguayan goalkeeper.
As halftime approached, Balogun struck again in first-half stoppage time, completing his brace with another clinical finish to give the United States a commanding 3-0 lead heading into the break.
His two-goal performance placed the Americans firmly in control and left Paraguay with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Paraguay Responds but Reyna Has the Final Word
Paraguay managed to reduce the deficit in the 73rd minute when Maurício found the back of the net, offering his side a glimmer of hope at 3-1.
However, any thoughts of a comeback were extinguished deep into stoppage time. In the 90th minute plus added time, Gio Reyna produced one of the standout moments of the match, curling a superb outside-of-the-boot effort into the corner of the net to seal a memorable 4-1 victory.
The late strike capped an impressive evening for head coach Mauricio Pochettino and his squad, highlighting the attacking depth and flair within the U.S. lineup.
Strong Position in Group D
The victory gives the United States three valuable points and an early boost in the Group D standings as they pursue a place in the knockout rounds.
Elsewhere in the group, co-host Mexico began its campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa, while Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina shared the points in a 1-1 draw.
The USMNT will aim to build on its winning start when it faces Australia in its second group-stage match on Friday, June 19, at Seattle Stadium. The team will then conclude Group D play against Türkiye on Thursday, June 25, in Los Angeles.
If the performance against Paraguay is any indication, the United States has laid down an early marker as it seeks to make a deep run on home soil in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Source: Omanghana
