LOS ANGELES: The United States launched its World Cup campaign with emphatic authority, defeating Paraguay 4-1 in front of a star-studded crowd at SoFi Stadium. Folarin Balogun netted a brace and Gio Reyna added a late strike to secure a dominant start for the co-hosts.
The hosts seized control within seven minutes when an own goal by Damian Bobadilla gave them the lead. By halftime, the US had extended their advantage to 3-0, capitalizing on 75 percent possession and relentless attacking pressure. Balogun’s second goal, a curled effort into the top corner, capped a flawless first-half performance.
The night was not without concern, however. Captain Christian Pulisic, the team’s primary offensive threat, withdrew at halftime due to injury. His absence looms large as the US aims for its deepest tournament run since 2002.
Paraguay managed a consolation goal through substitute Mauricio, but Reyna restored the three-goal margin in stoppage time with a precise finish. The victory places the US in a strong position in Group D, ahead of matches against Australia and Turkey.
The match followed a high-profile opening ceremony featuring Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta, and K-pop star Lisa, underscoring the event’s global cultural significance.