Balogun Scores Twice as US Thrash Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup Opener

The United States launched their home 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion on Friday, thrashing Paraguay 4-1 with a perfectly scripted opening performance that delighted a star-studded crowd in Los Angeles.

Folarin Balogun was the star of the show, scoring twice as relentless American pressure overwhelmed the South American side.

The onslaught began early with a Paraguay own goal from Damian Bobadilla, while substitute Gio Reyna added a late fourth to cap a dream start for Mauricio Pochettino’s squad at the SoFi Stadium in Group D.

The US Men’s National Team entered the global tournament amid a swirl of uncertainty following a series of defeats and unconvincing performances in pre-World Cup friendlies.

READ ALSO: Uzodimma releases N300m to Imo returnees from

However, any lingering doubts about their ability to progress past the first round were completely obliterated in a dazzling first-half display.

The co-hosts roared into a commanding 3-0 lead, all but sealing the victory in the opening 45 minutes. Wave after wave of US pressure forced Bobadilla’s own goal just seven minutes into the match.

This opened the floodgates for Balogun, who grew up in London and represented England youth teams before pledging allegiance to the United States, to bag his impressive brace before the halftime whistle.

US talisman, Christian Pulisic, praised the team’s commanding performance, noting that the squad executed their game plan perfectly.

“Just a great start from the guys. The guys came out with so much energy, just a great performance and a deserved win.

“It’s just the start of a long journey. We’ve got a lot more to do. It’s a really, really great start and we should be proud, but we’ve got to keep pushing and be ready for the next game,” he said.

The atmosphere at the SoFi Stadium matched the magnitude of the occasion. Pop superstar Katy Perry got the party started with a rousing musical performance just before kick-off, setting the stage for the host nation.

The stands were packed with a capacity crowd of 70,492 fans, which included Hollywood royalty such as Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Halle Berry.

The US players rose to the occasion under the bright lights, delivering a performance of flair and precision that will ignite dreams of a deep tournament run for the co-hosts.

The only minor blemish on an otherwise flawless night for the United States was a momentary lapse in defense in the 73rd minute, which allowed Brazil-born forward Mauricio to pull a consolation goal back for Paraguay.

However, Reyna’s late strike firmly restored the three-goal cushion, ensuring the hosts sit comfortably at the top of Group D as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures against Australia and Turkey.