By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The United States began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style with a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay, powered by a brilliant first-half brace from striker Folarin Balogun.
Playing in front of a home crowd in Los Angeles, the co-hosts took an early lead in the seventh minute when Paraguay defender Damian Bobadilla turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie.
Balogun then took control of the contest.
The striker doubled the United States’ advantage in the 31st minute before adding his second goal deep into first-half stoppage time, giving Mauricio Pochettino’s side a commanding 3-0 lead at the interval.
Paraguay briefly raised hopes of a comeback when Mauricio reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute.
However, substitute Giovanni Reyna ended any doubt about the outcome with a superb stoppage-time strike to seal an emphatic 4-1 victory.
Balogun Makes History
Balogun’s two-goal performance also secured his place in U.S. football history.
The forward became only the second American player to score twice in a FIFA World Cup match, highlighting the attacking quality of a youthful United States side aiming for a deep run on home soil.
Australia Ease Past Turkey
In the other Group D fixture, Australia opened their campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Turkey in Vancouver.
Young forward Nestory Irankunda made history by becoming the youngest Australian to score at a FIFA World Cup.
Connor Metcalfe added a second goal after the break, while goalkeeper Patrick Beach delivered a series of impressive saves to keep Turkey at bay and preserve a clean sheet.
Group D Taking Shape
The victories leave the United States and Australia level on three points at the top of Group D ahead of their highly anticipated meeting in the next round.
Paraguay and Turkey, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back and secure their first points of the tournament when they face each other.
