United States beat Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup opener

United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 in the Group D opening match of World Cup 2026 in Los Angeles. The game was staged at SoFi Stadium, normally home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. The ceremony featured a performance by singer Katy Perry and attracted numerous film stars and former athletes. United States, coached by Mauricio Pochettino, started strongly. Sergiño Dest of PSV and former PSV player Malik Tillman were in the starting lineup. The American side displayed energetic, fast‑paced combination play. Damian Bobadilla scored an own goal to give United States a 1-0 lead. Folarin Balogun's first‑half effort was ruled out, but he later netted the second goal after a Christian Pulisic assist. Balogun added a third before halftime, completing a brace.

USA defeat Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup opener

After the break Paraguay reduced the deficit when Mauricio Pochettino received the ball and placed it in the far corner to make it 3-1. Ricardo Pepi missed a close‑range chance. Giovanni Reyna sealed the win with a long‑range strike in stoppage time.

USA crush Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles

Turkey will face Australia on 14 June, while United States meets Australia on 19 June. Paraguay plays Turkey the following day.