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U.S. Beats Paraguay 4-1, Balogun Nets Historic Brace

6/13/2026

40 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. men’s national soccer team opened the World Cup with a 4-1 win over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, leading Group D.
The opening goal resulted from a Damián Bobadilla own-goal after Christian Pulisic’s cross.
Folarin Balogun scored twice, becoming the first U.S. player with a multigoal World Cup game since 1930.
Christian Pulisic assisted both goals before being substituted at halftime for precaution after a calf kick.

History

Historical Context

In 1930, the United States reached the World Cup semi-final in Uruguay, losing 6-1 to Argentina, while Uruguay hosted the inaugural tournament that drew 93,000 spectators for the final. Today, Folarin Balogun’s two goals echo that early U.S. breakthrough, showing how historic milestones can revive American soccer national programs development.

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Story summary

The U.S. men’s national soccer team opened the World Cup with a 4-1 win over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, leading Group D.
The opening goal resulted from a Damián Bobadilla own-goal after Christian Pulisic’s cross.
Folarin Balogun scored twice, becoming the first U.S. player with a multigoal World Cup game since 1930.
Christian Pulisic assisted both goals before being substituted at halftime for precaution after a calf kick.

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