FIFA World Cup 2026: USA Beat Paraguay 4-1 in Dominant Opening Match
The United States made an emphatic start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, defeating Paraguay 4-1 in front of home supporters on Friday. Folarin Balogun scored twice and Christian Pulisic orchestrated much of the attacking play as Mauricio Pochettino's side delivered a statement performance in their tournament opener.
Balogun and Pulisic Lead Dominant US Display
The hosts seized control early and were rewarded in the seventh minute. Christian Pulisic unlocked the Paraguayan defence with a precise pass to Weston McKennie, a move that eventually resulted in an own goal from Damian Bobadilla.
The United States continued to dictate proceedings and doubled their lead in the 31st minute when Folarin Balogun converted a well-weighted cross from Pulisic.
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Pulisic remained a constant threat throughout the first half, helping the hosts dominate possession and create opportunities against a struggling Paraguayan backline.
Paraguay Respond, But USA Remain in Control
Paraguay briefly raised hopes of a comeback in the 73rd minute when Mauricio Magalhães found the net to reduce the deficit.
However, the United States never appeared troubled and continued to control the tempo of the match. With one eye on the challenges ahead, head coach Mauricio Pochettino withdrew Pulisic at half-time and introduced Sebastian Berhalter.
The hosts maintained their attacking intent despite the changes, keeping Paraguay pinned back for much of the second half.
Reyna Adds Flair as Canada Held in Group Fixture
Gio Reyna added further shine to the victory late in the contest, producing a spectacular long-range strike that flew into the top corner.
Balogun then completed his brace deep into stoppage time, scoring in the 90+8th minute after weaving past two defenders before calmly finishing to seal a comprehensive 4-1 triumph.
Elsewhere in the group, Canada were held to a 1-1 draw by Bosnia and Herzegovina. Cyle Larin rescued a point for the Canadians with a late equaliser in the 78th minute.
The United States will play their next group-stage match in Seattle, while Canada are set to face Qatar in Vancouver as the tournament continues.
(With inputs from ANI)