U.S. Men’s Soccer Team Shines in World Cup Opener Against Paraguay

The U.S. men’s national soccer team triumphed over Paraguay in its World Cup opener, winning 4-1 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The American squad dominated the game from the start.

The initial goal resulted from an own goal by Paraguayan midfielder Damián Bobadilla in the 7th minute. Star striker Folarin Balogun extended the lead in the 31st minute with a precise strike past Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

As the first half concluded, Balogun netted another goal with an impressive shot into the goal’s top left corner. This put the U.S. up 3-0 at halftime.

Folarin Balogun of USA celebrates a goal with teammates during the World Cup Group D match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on June 12, 2026.

Paraguay’s Mauricio managed to score in the 73rd minute. However, it was not enough to change the game’s outcome. Gio Reyna capped the match with a remarkable strike in the second half’s stoppage time, securing the victory for the U.S.

This win gave the United States three points, positioning them at the top of Group D. The group also includes Australia and Turkey, set to compete on the following day. The U.S. team will face Australia next on June 19 in Seattle.

Previously, the U.S. struggled, scoring only three goals over four matches in the last World Cup in Qatar. The new coach, Mauricio Pochettino, brought a refreshed and creative playing style that energized the team and thrilled a vibrant Los Angeles crowd of 70,492 fans.

United States striker Folarin Balogun (20) celebrates scoring his side’s third goal against Paraguay with teammates during the World Cup Group D soccer match in Inglewood, California.

Folarin Balogun’s choice to represent the U.S. three years prior proved strategic. The New York-born, London-raised player delivered a standout performance that had been absent in past U.S. selections.

Christian Pulisic, who played a crucial role in the first two goals, did not return after halftime. He signaled that he was uninjured but was still replaced by Sebastian Berhalter.

Pulisic’s brilliant runs set the pace early on. His pass led to the game’s first goal when McKennie’s attempt hit Bobadilla’s foot, causing excitement in the stands.

The U.S. offense, centered on Pulisic, ensured a continual threat. Although an earlier Balogun goal was negated for offside, he soon scored again on a pass from Pulisic.

In added time, Malik Tillman’s long pass found Balogun, who artfully slotted the ball into the far corner, ending the half with a commanding lead.

The American team showed less cohesion in Pulisic’s absence, yet Reyna’s goal was a highlight. This marked Reyna’s first World Cup goal, a bright moment after limited playtime in a controversial previous tournament.

The match attracted numerous American celebrities, showcasing the cultural pull of the event. Among attendees were Tom Cruise, George Lucas, Bill Gates, Halle Berry, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.