INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The U.S. men’s national team opened its World Cup campaign with a 4-1 victory over Paraguay, a result that raised the prospect that the side not only has a star in Christian Pulisic but a scorer in Folarin Balogun. Pulisic called Balogun “insane” in the mixed zone, and Balogun described the outing as “a dreamy night.”
Pulisic produced one of his most vibrant first halves for the national team, two dribbles that helped create the opening Paraguay own goal and an inch-perfect pass to Balogun that counted as Pulisic’s 21st international assist. Tyler Adams praised Pulisic’s one-vs.-one ability, saying, “He just glides by people,” and called him “one of the best players in his position in the world.”
Balogun scored twice, finishing a side that combined Pulisic’s cutting runs with Balogun’s composure in front of goal. His second was described as a powerful blast into the upper corner. Two goals in a World Cup match made Balogun the first American to record a multi-goal game at this tournament since 1930.
Beyond goals and assists, Balogun’s pressing and willingness to engage defensively drew notice. Weston McKennie said Balogun “did what his job is” and highlighted the striker’s work in tackles and physical play. Malik Tillman was credited with incisive midfield work, Gio Reyna produced a capped wonder goal, and Chris Richards completed every pass he attempted.
Tactically, the U.S. repeatedly found space behind Paraguay’s block, cutting in and forcing defenders to chase. Pulisic noted that while such a performance can be hoped for or expected, it is not guaranteed in an opener. The victory also came against a Paraguay side that beat Argentina and Brazil during CONMEBOL qualifying, a fact underscoring the significance of the dominant display on a major stage.
