U.S. defeats Paraguay 4-1 to open the World Cup tournament.

The United States began its 2026 World Cup campaign with a decisive 4‑1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles. A brace from Folarin Balogun and a late goal from Gio Reyna secured the win in front of a sold‑out crowd that included Hollywood stars such as Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio and Paris Hilton.

The hosts took the lead within seven minutes when an own goal by Damian Bobadilla gave the U.S. an early advantage. By the end of the first half, the United States had built a 3‑0 lead, thanks to goals from Balogun and a header from Tim Ream.

Paraguay’s only goal came in the second half when Mauricio, a substitute, scored after a pass from Julio Enciso. Reyna added a fourth goal in stoppage time to seal the victory.

With this result, the United States is well positioned to advance from Group D, which also includes Australia and Turkey. The match was notable for the early withdrawal of Christian Pulisic, the team’s attacking talisman, who left the field in the first half.

US players celebrate after winning the 2026 World Cup Group D football match between USA and Paraguay at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood on June 12, 2026. (Photo by Valerie MACON / AFP)

Weston McKennie started the action in the 7th minute, delivering a pass to Pulisic who returned it to McKennie. The striker’s shot was deflected into his own net by Bobadilla, giving the U.S. an early lead.

In the 28th minute, Balogun’s first goal was ruled out for offside, but he scored again three minutes later after a cross from Antonee Robinson found him in the box. A third goal came just before halftime when Balogun, assisted by Tillman, curled a shot into the top left corner.

The United States held 75 percent possession in the first half and dominated the play. After Pulisic’s exit, the team adopted a slightly more defensive stance in the second half.

Paraguay’s only threat came from Julio Enciso, who, despite a hamstring injury, set up Mauricio for a goal. Reyna’s fourth goal was a curling strike from the outside of his right foot, landing just inside the far post.

The match was preceded by a Tinseltown‑style opening ceremony featuring Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta and K‑pop star Lisa. The performers celebrated around a giant World Cup trophy beneath large “FIFA” lettering. U.S. President Donald Trump did not attend but sent his best wishes to the team via phone before kickoff.

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