USA Makes World Cup History in Dominant Win Over Paraguay

The United States of America began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay, and in doing so, have written their name in the history book.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side scored three goals in the opening half of the match, helping them open their tournament in a perfect manner.

The opening goal of the game came from a Paraguayan as Damian Bobadilla turned the ball into his own net before Folarin Balogun added a brace before the interval.

Folarin Balogun #20 celebrates a goal alongside his United States teammates. (Photo by John Dorton/USSF/Getty Images)

Paraguay came back stronger in the second half, as they were able to find a consolation goal just after the second hydration break of the game.

Mauricio slotted the ball into the net but that was not enough to get them back into the game.

Instead, Giovanni Reyna added a fourth for the United States to wrap up a comprehensive victory in their opening game of this World Cup.

The 4-1 victory saw the United States end a 24-year Spanish record.

Since their 3-1 defeat to Spain in the 2002 World Cup at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium in South Korea, Paraguay have not conceded more than a goal in any of their fixtures in the competition, with the nation playing 10 fixtures.

The USA breached Paraguay’s defense on four occasion and Pochettino will be proud of his team attacking form. However, he will also be aware they have not been tested defensively.

United States will now put their focus on their next two fixtures when they face Australia and Turkiye.