The United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 on June 13, 2026 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles to open its 2026 World Cup campaign. An early own goal, a brace from Folarin Balogun and a stoppage-time strike by Gio Reyna secured the result in front of a packed crowd. Last updated: June 13, 2026.
The result positioned the USMNT strongly in Group D which also includes Australia and Turkiye, and set an assertive tone for a tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. The performance underscored squad depth after a halftime change for Christian Pulisic and highlighted a cohesive press, ball circulation, and chance conversion in both halves.
Scoreline and key moments at SoFi Stadium
The United States went ahead inside seven minutes when Paraguay’s Damian Bobadilla turned a low cross into his own net, establishing early control. Momentum continued as the hosts created sustained pressure, with Monaco forward Folarin Balogun finishing clinically before the interval and adding a second after the break. Paraguay pulled one back, but a late curler from Gio Reyna in stoppage time restored a three-goal margin and closed out a comprehensive display.
The second half included a pivotal counterattack that stretched Paraguay’s back line and produced a decisive finish, reinforcing the USMNT’s advantage. Defensive organization, captained by Tim Ream, limited clear chances at the other end, while goalkeeping delivered crucial stops to preserve the lead. The game management phase was effective, with patient possession and timed pressure minimizing risks in transition.
Injury note and standout contributors
Christian Pulisic was substituted at halftime as a precaution, and his status will be monitored ahead of the next group match. In his absence, the side maintained tempo and vertical threat through Balogun’s movement and Reyna’s late strike, supported by Weston McKennie’s distribution and Antonee Robinson’s overlapping supply on the flank. Coaching adjustments, including substitutions and shape tweaks, helped stabilize midfield zones and sustain pressure between the lines.
The back line, marshaled by Ream, held shape against Paraguay’s direct surges, while the midfield screened passing lanes to frustrate buildup. Collective pressing triggered turnovers that led to chances, and set-piece delivery repeatedly asked questions of Paraguay’s defense. The
Group D implications and tournament backdrop
The win offered an early points cushion in Group D, where fixtures against Australia and Turkiye will shape knockout pathways. The performance suggested confidence in both defensive structure and attacking patterns, with rotation options available if fitness management is required. Fans responded with sustained energy inside SoFi, where Hollywood figures including Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio and Paris Hilton were seen in the stands.
Before kickoff, an opening ceremony under the golden FIFA letters featured performances by Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, Anitta and K-pop artist Lisa, underscoring the scale of the event. The USMNT’s display matched the occasion, combining early pressure with late efficiency to secure a 4-1 margin and a strong start to its home-soil World Cup.
