Story perspectives

U.S. Beats Paraguay 4-1, Balogun Scores Double

6/13/2026

Summary

USA Beats Paraguay

United States beat Paraguay 4-1 in the World Cup opener on June 12 in Inglewood, California.
Damián Bobadilla’s own goal in the seventh minute gave the United States an early lead.
Folarin Balogun scored twice—31st minute and stoppage time—becoming the first American with multiple World Cup goals since Bert Patenaude.
The United States held 63 % possession, fired 14 shots to nine, and led 5-1 in shots on target.

Summary

Pochettino Adjusts Formation

Mauricio Pochettino deployed a 4-2-3-1 that morphed into a 3-4-2-1, letting the back line shift between a back-four and a back-five.
His early-game plan stressed relentless attacking, driving the United States to 65 % possession.
Pochettino reinstated Chris Richards after injury and paired him with Tim Ream to balance the centre-back.
He swapped Christian Pulisic for Sebastian Berhalter at halftime and added Gio Reyna and Timothy Weah for width and pressing.

Summary

Berhalter Targets Quarterfinals

Gregg Berhalter said reaching the quarter-finals would be a U.S. soccer milestone.
Forward Folarin Balogun earned a 9 rating, the team’s top score, after choosing the United States over England.
Midfielder Weston McKennie got a 7.5 rating, reflecting his career-best season.
Defender Chris Richards returned, got a 6.5 rating and was praised for leadership.
Right-back Sergiño Dest received a 7 rating, noted for dangerous runs but needs sharper finishing.

History

Historical Context

In the inaugural 1930 World Cup, the United States opened by beating Belgium 3-0 and then recorded the tournament’s first hat-trick as Bert Patenaude scored three against Paraguay. A century later, on 12 June 2024 in Inglewood, the U.S. repeated its early dominance, defeating Paraguay 4-1 with Folarin Balogun netting twice, underscoring America’s growing World Cup competitiveness.

1 of 4

USA Beats Paraguay

United States beat Paraguay 4-1 in the World Cup opener on June 12 in Inglewood, California.
Damián Bobadilla’s own goal in the seventh minute gave the United States an early lead.
Folarin Balogun scored twice—31st minute and stoppage time—becoming the first American with multiple World Cup goals since Bert Patenaude.
The United States held 63 % possession, fired 14 shots to nine, and led 5-1 in shots on target.

1 / 4