FOLLOW US

Folarin Balogun scores twice as the USA demolishes Paraguay 4-1 at SoFi Stadium, securing a historic, high-scoring FIFA World Cup opening victory.

LOS ANGELES — Folarin Balogun scored twice to lead the United States to a 4-1 win over Paraguay in its World Cup opener Friday night. More than 70,000 fans packed SoFi Stadium.

The U.S. was in control throughout the match. The team scored its most goals ever in a World Cup match. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino set the tone before kickoff. He told players to relax and play freely. “They need to… play like they are a child… without pressure,” he said.

The players followed that message. As a result, they overwhelmed a Paraguay defense that had allowed just 10 goals in 18 qualifying matches.

Fast start sparks control

The U.S. took control early. In the seventh minute, Weston McKennie sent a sharp pass into the box. Paraguay turned it into an own goal.

That moment energized the crowd. From there, the Americans kept attacking. Next, Balogun took over. He scored twice and broke down Paraguay’s defense. That same defense had beaten Brazil and Argentina in qualifying. “We just wanted to… have fun,” McKennie said. “Like pickup ball.”

Because of that mindset, the U.S. played fast and fearless.

The Americans stayed aggressive. They pushed forward and controlled the pace. Meanwhile, Paraguay struggled to respond. The U.S. attack kept them pinned back. Then, in the final seconds, Gio Reyna added the fourth goal. His late strike sealed the 4-1 win.

Win changes expectations

Before the match, expectations were low. Earlier this year, the U.S. lost badly to Belgium and Portugal. However, recent games showed progress. The team beat Senegal and played Germany closely. Still, few expected this kind of performance. Now, the win shifts the outlook. The U.S. looks confident and dangerous.

The team now turns to its next match. The U.S. will face Australia on June 18 in Seattle.