USA defeats Paraguay in World Cup

Folarin Balogun scored twice, including a stunning second goal into the top corner, as the United States overwhelmed Paraguay 4-1 in their World Cup opener. The Americans produced a dominant first-half display, racing to a 3-0 lead in their first home World Cup in 32 years.

Christian Pulisic also impressed with a key assist as the U.S. delivered an aggressive attacking performance that thrilled the home crowd and secured their biggest World Cup win.

Gio Reyna added a late goal in stoppage time as the United States completed a historic 4-1 World Cup win over Paraguay, marking the first time they have ever scored four goals in a tournament match.

The performance highlighted a major shift in the team’s attacking confidence under coach Mauricio Pochettino, as the Americans produced an aggressive, free-flowing display in front of a packed home crowd in Los Angeles.

It was a breakthrough result that contrasted sharply with their recent struggles in past World Cups.

Christian Pulisic was substituted at half-time as a precaution after feeling tightness in his left calf, following a knock he had picked up in training earlier in the week. But despite the change, the United States remained in control of the match.

Paraguay managed to score in the second half through Maurício, but it was only a consolation as they had already fallen too far behind due to the United States’ dominant first-half performance.

Brazil and Morocco draw

Vinícius Júnior scored a superb equaliser as Brazil drew 1-1 with Morocco in a high-profile World Cup group match.
Morocco had taken the lead in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari after a strong start.

Brazil responded 11 minutes later when Vinícius combined with Bruno Guimarães on the left before firing a powerful shot past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou to level the match, earning the five-time champions a hard-fought point.

In front of a massive crowd at MetLife Stadium, after falling behind early, Brazil equalised through Vinícius, who lifted the mood of the huge Brazilian crowd. Brazil is hoping to end their long wait for a World Cup crown, which was last won in 2002.

The result extended Brazil’s unbeaten run in World Cup openers to 21 matches, with 17 wins in that span.

Both sides remain key contenders in the expanded 48-team tournament, with Brazil set to face Haiti next and Morocco continuing their group campaign against Scotland.

Brazil went without star forward Neymar, who was sidelined due to a calf injury.