FIFA World Cup 2026: USA thrash Paraguay 4-1 to begin campaign in style

The United States men's national team kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay on Saturday. The match, played at a sold-out stadium, saw the Americans take control early and never look back.

Forward Christian Pulisic opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a clinical finish from inside the box. Midfielder Weston McKennie doubled the lead in the 28th minute with a powerful header off a corner kick.

Paraguay pulled one back just before halftime through a long-range strike from Miguel Almirón. However, the U.S. responded quickly after the break, with Pulisic scoring his second of the game in the 52nd minute. Substitute Ricardo Pepi sealed the win with a goal in the 78th minute.

The victory puts the USA at the top of Group B with three points. They will face Nigeria in their next group stage match on Tuesday.