Key facts
- The U.S. Men's National Team defeated Paraguay 4-1 in their opening World Cup match.
- Folarin Balogun scored two goals in the first half, becoming the first U.S. player to score twice in a World Cup game since 1930.
- Christian Pulisic was substituted at halftime due to calf tightness.
- The match was played in front of 70,492 fans at Los Angeles Stadium.
- Paraguay's goal was scored by Mauricio in the 73rd minute, and Gio Reyna added a late goal for the U.S.
The United States launched their home World Cup campaign with a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles. Striker Folarin Balogun was the star of the first half, scoring two goals to become the first American to achieve this feat in a World Cup match since 1930. The U.S. also benefited from an early own goal by Paraguay's Damian Bobadilla.
Despite the resounding win, concerns arose over the fitness of key player Christian Pulisic, who was substituted at halftime due to calf tightness. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed hope that the injury is not serious.
Paraguay showed increased intensity in the second half and managed to pull a goal back in the 73rd minute through substitute Mauricio. However, Gio Reyna sealed the victory for the U.S. with a late strike from the edge of the box.
The match, played at the sold-out Los Angeles Stadium with a capacity of 70,492, drew high-profile spectators including Tom Cruise and David Beckham. The U.S. aims to improve on their previous World Cup performance, while Paraguay seeks to rebound in their upcoming matches.