LOS ANGELES: Host nation the United States made an impressive start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a dominant 4–1 victory over Paraguay on Saturday morning at the Los Angeles Stadium.
Folarin Balogun starred for the United States with a brace, while Giovanni Reyna added another goal. The remaining goal came through an own goal by Paraguay, while Mauricio scored a consolation goal for the South American side.
The match began dramatically, with the United States taking the lead in the 8th minute through an own goal. Paraguay defender Damian Bobadilla inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to block a shot from Weston McKennie, giving the hosts an early advantage.
Balogun doubled the lead in the 31st minute, finishing a well-constructed move to put the United States firmly in control. He struck again in first-half stoppage time to complete his brace and extend the lead to 3–0 before the break.
Paraguay attempted a comeback in the 71st minute when Mauricio pulled one back, offering a brief hope of recovery.
However, in the final minute of second-half stoppage time, Giovanni Reyna sealed the emphatic win with a late goal, ensuring a 4–1 victory for the hosts.
With the win, the United States secured three points and moved to the top of Group D. The group also includes Australia and Turkey.
Earlier in the day, Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina played out a 1–1 draw in the same group fixtures.
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