The United States men’s national soccer team secured an emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay in its 2026 FIFA World Cup opener held on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, thrilling tens of thousands of fans in attendance. The home side took control early and never looked back in the Group D match.
What Happened
At SoFi Stadium, located in Inglewood, California, on Friday, June 12, 2026, the U.S. men’s team faced Paraguay in their opening group stage match of the FIFA World Cup. The game started with an early own goal by Paraguayan midfielder Damián Bobadilla in the 7th minute, giving the U.S. a quick lead. Star forward Folarin Balogun then scored twice, once in the 31st minute and again in first-half stoppage time. Paraguay responded with a goal by Mauricio in the 73rd minute, but Gio Reyna sealed the win with a late goal during stoppage time of the second half. The match was attended by 70,492 fans.
Key Facts
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
- Date: June 12, 2026
- Final score: U.S. 4, Paraguay 1
- Goals: Own goal by Damián Bobadilla (Paraguay, 7th minute), Folarin Balogun (USA, 31st minute and stoppage time first half), Mauricio (Paraguay, 73rd minute), Gio Reyna (USA, stoppage time second half)
- Attendance: 70,492
- U.S. leads Group D, which also includes Australia and Turkey
- Next U.S. match: Against Australia on June 19, 2026, in Seattle
Why It Matters
This strong opening win boosts the U.S. team’s chances to advance in the World Cup hosted partly on home soil. It also energizes the growing American soccer fan base, as interest in the sport has expanded steadily since the 1994 World Cup, reinforcing the sport’s rising prominence in the United States.
Background
The U.S. last hosted the men’s World Cup in 1994, when the national team won just one match in the tournament eventually won by Brazil. Since then, soccer has significantly grown in popularity across the country, supported by the rise of Major League Soccer (MLS), established in 1996, and increased youth participation nationwide.
Analysis
This information was not confirmed in the reviewed sources.
Who Is Affected
The U.S. men’s national soccer team and its fans, particularly those in California attending the match at SoFi Stadium, along with Group D competitors Australia and Turkey, are directly affected by the match outcome.
What Remains Unclear
- The sources do not confirm any details on the team’s internal injuries or lineup changes for upcoming matches.
- Motivations behind Paraguayan defensive errors were not addressed.
What Comes Next
The U.S. team’s next World Cup match is scheduled against Australia on June 19, 2026, in Seattle, Washington.
Sources
This article is based on reporting and publicly available information from the following source:
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