The United States men’s national team faced Paraguay in its 2026 World Cup opener as the host country, and the home team was ready to play. The U.S. looked good in its tune-up friendly vs. Germany, and they dominated early play in the opener with three goals before the halftime break. Christian Pulisic created first two goals for the United States, and finally looked like the superstar who was promised. Folarin Balogun scored the second and third goals to send the Los Angeles crown into delirium.
Pulisic split a double team to set up a scoring chance on the first goal, which was put into the net by Paraguay’s Damián Bobadilla for the own goal. Watch the play here:
Balogun had a goal shortly after the hydration break, but the refs ruled him offsides. He would get on the board minutes later off a beautiful feed from Pulisic.
Pulisic made a run down the left side of the field, and cut it back to find a wide open Balogun, who drilled it in the net. Watch the play here.
Here’s an alternate angle featuring ref cam:
Balogun was born in Brooklyn but grew up in England. He chose to play for the U.S. over both England and Nigeria, and he’s quickly becoming the star striker the Americans have always needed.
Balogun scored another goal before the end of the half, burying the ball in the top shelf. What a moment.
Has the United States’ men’s national team ever played this well before? I don’t think so. The Americans are up 3-0 before the second half even begins. It’s a party in LA.