The United States men's national team defeated Paraguay 4-1 in their opening World Cup match on Tuesday, the New York Times reported[1]. Folarin Balogun scored twice for the Americans. This marked one of the best starts for the U.S. squad in decades.
USA scores four goals against Paraguay
Balogun became the first player from the U.S. to net multiple goals in a single World Cup game since 1930, Fox News noted[2]. Three other distinct players also found the net for the United States during the 90-minute contest. Paraguay managed a single goal in response to the American pressure. The match occurred on June 13, 2026, as part of the tournament schedule hosted across North America. This victory took place during a World Cup co-hosted by the United States, giving the home side a distinct advantage in front of local crowds, official records confirm[3].
Berhalter addresses team performance standards
Coach Gregg Berhalter called the win a sign of progress but warned fans against getting too excited too soon. He stressed that consistency matters more than a single big score, the New York Athletic report noted[1]. Paraguay manager Fernando Baena admitted his side struggled to contain the US attack early on. Baena said his players could not handle the pressure during the first half of the match. The US team held a clear possession advantage throughout the second half, according to match statistics.
This result places the United States in a favorable position within Group B standings. Two more group matches remain before knockout stage qualification is decided.
What the win means for US soccer fans
Ticket demand for upcoming US national team matches is expected to rise. Fans in the United States will likely face higher prices and faster sellouts for future games following the 4-1 victory over Paraguay, the Athletic reported[1]. Broadcast networks are also preparing to increase coverage hours for subsequent tournament games. Initial viewership spikes from this opening match suggest a larger audience for the remainder of the World Cup, Fox News noted[2].
Two group matches remain before the U.S. can secure a spot in the knockout stage.
