US routs Paraguay 4-1 for dream start to FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign

The United States launched its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles to record the first four-goal performance by the Americans in a World Cup match.

Folarin Balogun starred with two first-half goals as the co-hosts raced into a commanding 3-0 lead before halftime, with Paraguay’s Damian Bobadilla also scoring an own goal early in the contest. Mauricio pulled one back for Paraguay after the break, but substitute Gio Reyna sealed the victory with a late fourth goal.

The convincing win provided a major boost for coach Mauricio Pochettino’s side, which had entered the tournament under pressure following a string of disappointing results in pre-World Cup friendlies.

More than 70,000 fans packed the Los Angeles Stadium for the Group D opener, while celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio, David Beckham, Tom Cruise, Paris Hilton and Owen Wilson were among those in attendance. Pop star Katy Perry also performed during the pre-match opening ceremony.

Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro conceded his side had been outplayed, saying the United States dominated tactically, technically and physically throughout the match.

Elsewhere, Canada earned its first-ever World Cup point after securing a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Cyle Larin scored for the hosts in front of a crowd that included Canadian stars Ryan Reynolds and Mike Myers.