The United States of America (USA) set the ball rolling on a great note, scoring four goals in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D Opening Match against Paraguay early Saturday.

America took the lead after just seven minutes when Paraguay midfielder Damian Bobadilla inadvertently kicked the ball into his own net before Folarin Balogun’s double and Reyna’s late goal sealed the points in a 4-1 drubbing.

Bobadilla, apparently under pressure scored an own goal while trying to stop a cut back from Weston McKennie.

However, striker Folarin Balogun’s goals proved decisive as the US cruised to a convincing victory at the Sofi Stadium in California.

The early goal helped the co-host exert continuous pressure on its South American opponent.

Paraguay failed to deal with the threat posed by USA’s attacking unit and conceded two to Balogun before half time.

Star attacker Cristian Pulisic was taken off at the break by coach Mauricio Pochettino and the Americans could only score their last goal in added time of the second half.

Giovanni Reyna added a fourth goal seconds before the final whistle to confirm the three points for Mauricio Pochettino’s team.

Earlier in the 74th minute, substitute Mauricio cut down the lead by one in the 74th minute but Paraguay could not muster enough to force an unlikely comeback.

Meanwhile, USA temporarily moves to the top of Group D ahead of Turkiye’s contest against Australia late on Saturday night (Sunday morning IST).

Earlier on Friday night, South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1, while co-host Canada played 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina.