U.S. defeats Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup opener with Balogun scoring twice

The United States began its World Cup campaign with a 4-1 win over Paraguay before a crowd of 70,492 at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium. Folarin Balogun scored twice, becoming the first American since 1930 to net multiple goals in a World Cup match, while Christian Pulisic added a goal and an assist before leaving at halftime with a calf injury.

The Americans took an early lead in the seventh minute when Paraguay defender Damián Bobadilla scored an own goal. Balogun extended the lead in the 31st minute with a one-touch finish from a Christian Pulisic cross, and added a second in first-half stoppage time after a pass from Malik Tillman found him one-on-one with defender Omar Alderete.

Tim Ream, at 38, became the oldest U.S. player to appear in a World Cup match, partnering with Chris Richards and 21-year-old Alex Freeman in central defense. Midfielders Tyler Adams and Tillman helped transition the ball quickly, and winger Sergiño Dest was given a more advanced role.

Paraguay reduced the deficit late in the second half when Julio Enciso set up a goal for Mauricio. The United States responded when Gio Reyna, who entered in the 82nd minute, scored from an Alex Freeman assist in stoppage time.

The victory puts the United States in a strong position ahead of its next group match against Australia in Seattle. Coach Mauricio Pochettino said the team will review Pulisic’s substitution after the game.