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U.S. Beats Paraguay 4-1, Pochettino Ties Coaching Record

6/21/2026

Summary

US Crushes Paraguay

The United States defeated Paraguay 4–1 at SoFi Stadium, earning a second consecutive group-stage win in the 2026 World Cup.
The 4–1 score matched the U.S. men’s team’s biggest World Cup margin and was the first double group-stage victory since 1930.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino tied coach Bruce Arena and coach Robert Millar for most World Cup wins by a U.S. coach with his second victory.

Summary

Zlatan Predicts

Zlatan Ibrahimovic said the United States can win the 2026 World Cup.
Pundits predict a U.S. triumph on home soil, calling it a possible shock.
The United States topped Group D and secured a knockout spot after two opening wins.
Players say collective belief has grown since the pre-tournament camp.
Analysts note any team still in contention can win, making U.S. hopes realistic.

Summary

Pochettino Rotates Squad

Coach Mauricio Pochettino will rest the four yellow-carded starters to keep them eligible for the knockout round.
The 2022 FIFA expansion to 26 players lets Mauricio Pochettino rotate unused squad members.
Aaronson, Arfsten, McKenzie, Robinson, Roldan, Turner and Zendejas will play against Türkiye.
Goalkeeper Matt Freese may start over Matt Turner after earning the first clean sheet.
Pulisic’s calf injury lets Mauricio Pochettino avoid rushing his return.

History

Historical Context

In 1930 Uruguay hosted the first World Cup, inviting 13 nations; the United States reached the semi-finals and recorded a 3–0 group win over Belgium, highlighted by Bert Patenaude’s historic hat-trick. After a long hiatus, the US returns as co-host in 2026 and repeats the early triumph with a 4–1 victory over Paraguay, underscoring its growing World Cup stature.

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US Crushes Paraguay

The United States defeated Paraguay 4–1 at SoFi Stadium, earning a second consecutive group-stage win in the 2026 World Cup.
The 4–1 score matched the U.S. men’s team’s biggest World Cup margin and was the first double group-stage victory since 1930.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino tied coach Bruce Arena and coach Robert Millar for most World Cup wins by a U.S. coach with his second victory.

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