USA 4–1 Paraguay: Hosts Open the World Cup With a Rout, Balogun Bags a Brace
USA 4–1 Paraguay: hosts off to a flyer
In the Group D opener, co-hosts the USA beat Paraguay 4–1 in Los Angeles for a dream start. It was the first World Cup match on US soil in over 30 years, and the home atmosphere was electric. Three first-half goals settled it, defying the “hosts in decline” talk with an emphatic win that lit up American fans.
Balogun’s brace rewrites a 95-year record
The hero was striker Balogun, whose first-half brace made him the first US player to score twice in a single World Cup match since the inaugural 1930 tournament. In the 7th minute, Pulisic and McKennie combined down the left to force Bobadilla’s own goal; Balogun then struck twice and Reyna added a fourth with the outside of his boot for 3–0 at the break.
Pulisic shines, subbed at the break with a knock
Captain Pulisic was the early standout, assisting Balogun’s first and forcing the own goal, involved in nearly every early attack. He was withdrawn for Berhalter at half-time with a calf complaint. Coach Pochettino called it precautionary post-match, confident Pulisic will be ready for the next game, so fans need not worry.
Pochettino’s plan pays off
The win vindicated Pochettino. The high press and quick transitions worked a treat, the link-up was fluid and the wide runs sharp. Against a physical Paraguay, the hosts used pace and combination to beat the press, showing the enterprise and execution expected of a host nation.
Data and flow
The hosts led clearly on possession, shots and expected goals (xG), with first-half efficiency the key. Paraguay pulled one back to restore some pride but could not change the outcome. Overall it was a model opening display — wide-and-central attacking, decisive finishing and seamless input from substitutes all validated the squad’s depth and confidence.
Qualification outlook and next game
The opening rout gave the USA an early edge in Group D. Next they face Australia in Seattle on 19 June, then Turkey in the final group game. To follow every result, bookmark our live scores and full fixtures (Malaysia time), with post-match data and highlights so you miss nothing.
