Folarin Balogun scores twice as USMNT beats Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • • general
Key Points:
- The U.S. men's soccer team delivered a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup opener at SoFi Stadium, marking their first World Cup on home soil in 32 years and showcasing significant progress.
- Folarin Balogun scored twice, becoming the first U.S. player since 1930 to net multiple goals in a World Cup match, while Christian Pulisic contributed before leaving at halftime due to a calf injury.
- The U.S. took an early lead with an own goal and extended it with Balogun’s goals, controlling possession and creating numerous chances, reflecting a confident and aggressive performance.
- Despite a brief defensive lapse in the second half that allowed Paraguay to score, the U.S. maintained dominance, with Gio Reyna adding a late goal to seal the emphatic win.
- The victory positions the U.S. team strongly in Group D ahead of their next match against Australia, highlighting a promising start under coach Mauricio Pochettino.