World Cup 2026 Soccer USMNT dominates Paraguay in promising World Cup opener By Michael Blinn Published June 12, 2026, 11:02 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results.
Add The New York Post on Google The US’s World Cup run got off to a smashing start.
Folarin Baolgun scored a pair of first half goals as the USMNT raced out to a 3-0 lead, holding on for a 4-1 win over Paraguay in Los Angeles.
Gio Reyna capped off the scoring with a sensational extra-time goal.
Folarin Balogun (R) of the United States celebrates scoring during the group D match between the United States and Paraguay. Xinhua/Shutterstock Damian Bobabilla, a Paraguayan national, was credited with opening the scoring just seven minutes in to opening half on a Paraguay own-goal, setting the tone for what would be a dominant 45 minutes.
Paraguay’s Mauricio broke up Matt Freese’s shutout with a goal in the 73rd minute, but the Americans were able to stave off subsequent pressure.
Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Juan Jose Caceres #4 of Paraguay. Getty Images The US played the second half without star Christian Pulisic, who was subbed out for Sebastian Berhalter in a surprising move coach Mauricio Pochettino promised to address postgame.
