USA defeat Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup opener

The United States beat Paraguay 4-1 in their World Cup opener at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Goals came from Balogun, G. Reyna and an own goal by Bobadilla after a Pulisic move. Bobadilla's own goal arrived in the 7th minute after a brilliant Pulisic run. Balogun scored twice, in the 31st minute and added a stoppage‑time strike in the 45+5 minute. G. Reyna sealed the win with a goal in the 90+8 minute. Paraguay's sole reply was a 73rd‑minute strike by Mauricio.

United States beat Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup opener

President Donald Trump called coach Pochettino after the match, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended the ceremony. The stadium’s star parade featured Tom Cruise, David Beckham, George Lucas and Paris Hilton. A pre‑match show on Fox Sports saw Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry debate a comment by Alexi Lalas, and Speed was removed after proclaiming Portugal will win the World Cup. Police halted a clumsy pitch‑invasion attempt in the 97th minute. Balogun’s brace marked the first double by an American in a World Cup match since 1930, both goals coming against Paraguay.