United States thrashes Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup debut

The United States men's national soccer team launched their 2026 World Cup journey with a commanding 4-1 win against Paraguay at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The host nation showcased a strong performance, particularly in the first half, with Christian Pulisic leading the charge.

Folarin Balogun netted a brace, and an own goal by Paraguay's Damián Bobadilla in the seventh minute gave the US a comfortable lead. Balogun extended the advantage in the 31st minute and added another in first-half stoppage time. Paraguay, returning to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, managed to score a late consolation goal in the 73rd minute through a strike by Giovanni Reyna, but the US secured their dominant victory with a fourth goal just before the final whistle.

The match, played in the "soccer" nation's return to hosting the World Cup since 1994, saw the US team impress with a solid defense and an explosive attacking quartet. Pulisic, Sergiño Dest, Weston McKennie, and Balogun were key figures in the offensive strategy. The game was also a star-studded affair, with celebrities like George Lucas, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Tom Cruise in attendance, alongside David Beckham, who had earlier received his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Katy Perry, who performed before the match, was seen with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.