Balogun's Brace Powers USMNT's 4-1 Win Over Paraguay

Paraguay scored early, but the United States seized control through channels and deep runs by Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman. The midfield trio of McKennie, Tillman and Tyler Adams kept possession, allowing recirculation. Defenders Chris Richards, Tim Ream and right-back Alex Freeman provided a back line. Coach Mauricio Pochettino’s system emphasized off-ball spacing and a number-10 role for McKennie ahead of Tillman, unsettling Paraguay’s block.

The Guardian

Striker Folarin Balogun, a former Arsenal academy product who chose the United States over England, delivered a first-half brace, stretching the defence and creating space for teammates. Alex Freeman, 21, started at right-back after a rapid rise at Villarreal; his work helped contain Paraguayan wingers. Defender Chris Richards set a World Cup record with 83 passes completed at 100 % accuracy, reinforcing the back line.

The Guardian

The United States won 4-1. Balogun scored two goals in the first half. Richards completed 83 passes without a miss, the highest accuracy record. Balogun entered the tournament ranked fourth in Ligue 1. The US held higher possession and produced more shots on target than Paraguay.

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Mauricio Pochettino said the team’s performance “doesn’t matter until the World Cup” and praised the squad’s attacking movements. He highlighted the decision to deploy McKennie as a number 10 ahead of Tillman, describing it as a plan to exploit space and build momentum.

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Analysts pointed to doubts about US consistency under Pochettino, noting draws with Panama and Uruguay. Before Balogun’s arrival the side lacked a reliable striker, a vulnerability some feared could re-emerge. Turkey, the next group opponent, presents a “dazzling” attack that could test the US defence.

The Guardian

Sources do not give the exact minute of Paraguay’s opening goal or name the other two US scorers. No official xG data or post-match statement from US Soccer Federation is provided.

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• “I just tried to run in behind,” — Weston McKennie, USMNT midfielder

The Guardian

• “I think I realized early on that they were struggling to follow my deep runs. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. I keep trying to do it until they figure something out. I was able to find more space than usual, and it was fun. I really enjoyed to get on the ball as much as I did.” — Weston McKennie, USMNT midfielder

The Guardian

• “It felt good,” — Chris Richards, USMNT defender

The Guardian

• “Honestly, I wasn’t second guessing myself. That was the main thing. Playing with pain’s OK as long as I’m not second-guessing myself.” — Chris Richards, USMNT defender

The Guardian

The United States faces Turkey on June 19, then meets Australia in the round of 16 on June 26 if they top the group.

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