U.S. Crushes Paraguay 4-1 in 2026 World Cup Opener at SoFi Stadium

U.S. Crushes Paraguay 4-1 in 2026 World Cup Opener at SoFi Stadium

The United States kicked off its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style, defeating Paraguay 4-1 in a commanding performance on home soil at SoFi Stadium on Friday night — marking the World Cup's return to the U.S. for the first time since 1994.

Fast Start, Dominant First Half

The Americans wasted no time, taking the lead in just the seventh minute when a sharp run by Christian Pulisic set up Weston McKennie, whose pass deflected off Paraguay's Damián Bobadilla for an own goal. Folarin Balogun doubled the lead in the 31st minute, finishing off a precise cross from Pulisic.

By halftime, the U.S. had built a near-flawless first 45 minutes, putting the result largely out of reach early.

Balogun's Brace and a Cautious Substitution

Balogun struck again in stoppage time before the break, dribbling past two defenders to make it 3-0 and complete his brace. Soon after, USA coach Mauricio Pochettino made a notable change — substituting Pulisic at halftime as a precaution after he took a knock to the calf late in the first half. Sebastian Berhalter came on in his place.

Pulisic later told reporters he hopes the issue isn't serious and that the team simply didn't want to risk it so early in the tournament.

Paraguay Responds, But Reyna Seals It

Paraguay's Mauricio Magalhães pulled one back in the 73rd minute, offering a brief spark for the visitors, but they never seriously threatened a comeback. In the match's closing moments, veteran Gio Reyna capped off the night with a stunning strike from roughly 17 yards, sending the SoFi Stadium crowd into celebration.

Quotes from the Locker Room

"All in all, just an incredible start," Pulisic said after the match. "But there's a lot more we still have to do."

Balogun echoed the sentiment, calling it "a dreamy night" for the team and crediting the win with building confidence ahead of the next fixture.

What's Next

The U.S. will play its next match in Seattle on Friday. Meanwhile, in Group B action earlier Friday, host nation Canada opened its tournament with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto, with Cyle Larin scoring a late equalizer in the 78th minute. Canada's next match is Thursday against Qatar in Vancouver.

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