FIFA World Cup 2026 live updates: U.S. wins 4-1 against Paraguay in first match
The U.S. men's national soccer team secured a 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Folarin Balogun scoring twice and Christian Pulisic dominating early play. Gio Reyna added a late goal, while Paraguay managed a consolation goal in the 73rd minute, but the U.S. controlled the match from start to finish at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
The United States men’s national soccer team opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 4-1 win over Paraguay on Friday night at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Folarin Balogun scored twice, including a second-half brace, while Christian Pulisic led the attack in the first half, with his assist setting up Damián Bobadilla’s own goal in the seventh minute. The U.S. maintained dominance throughout, despite Paraguay’s late goal by Maurício Magalhães in the 73rd minute. Coach Mauricio Pochettino substituted Pulisic at halftime, a move that appeared to shift momentum slightly, though the U.S. still controlled possession. Gio Reyna sealed the victory with a curling shot from 17 yards out in stoppage time, adding to the crowd’s excitement after a near-flawless first half. Paraguay’s only goal came after the U.S. offense slowed in the second half, with Maurício capitalizing on a defensive error. Earlier subs Ricardo Pepi and Sebastian Berhalter missed chances to extend the lead, but the result stood as a strong statement for the hosts. In other Group B action, Canada drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto, with Cyle Larin scoring the equalizer in the 78th minute. The U.S. will next face Iran in Seattle on June 26, while Canada faces Qatar in Vancouver on June 23. The match showcased the U.S. team’s offensive firepower, with Balogun and Pulisic leading the charge in a performance that set the tone for their World Cup campaign.
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