The United States men’s national team defeated Paraguay 4-1 in their opening Group D match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California.
The co-hosts capitalized on an early own goal and clinical finishing to secure a strong start in front of a home crowd. Paraguay, ranked lower, struggled to contain the American attack but managed a late consolation. The result positions the USA favorably in the group standings.
Damián Bobadilla scored an own goal for the USA in the 7th minute, forced by pressure from Christian Pulisic (United States) and Weston McKennie (United States). Folarin Balogun (England-born American striker) added goals in the 31st minute, assisted by a cutback from Christian Pulisic (United States) following an Antonee Robinson cross, and in the 45+5th minute with a left-footed finish.
Maurício (Paraguayan midfielder) pulled one back for Paraguay in the 73rd minute. Giovanni Reyna (United States) sealed the win with a goal in the 90+8th minute. The USA dominated the first half with attacking flair before managing Paraguay’s second-half response for a controlled victory.
The USA top Group D with three points and a +2 goal difference after one match. Paraguay sit at the bottom with zero points. The victory marks a confident start for the co-hosts in their campaign to advance deep into the tournament on home soil.
The United States face Australia in their next Group D match on June 19, 2026, in Seattle.