Situated just across the parking lot from Los Angeles Stadium is the Forum, once the famed venue for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980s. Kicking off their journey in the 2026 World Cup before a crowd of 70,492, the US men’s national team channeled the Lakers’ electrifying spirit.
The US launched their World Cup campaign with style, decisively overcoming Paraguay with a score of 4-1.
Prior to the match, Mauricio Pochettino instilled quiet confidence in his squad. He believed there was no need for an impassioned speech for a team eager to shine on home soil. Drawing inspiration from a member of Argentina’s victorious 1986 squad, Pochettino urged his players to compete with joy and focus.
What followed was precisely the high-energy performance he desired in a spectacular first half.
The US team seized control right from the start, crafting their own opportunities. Christian Pulisic and Malik Tillman seemed to compete in nutmegging Paraguay’s defenders, leading to two yellow cards for the opposition. The first goal materialized within the opening ten minutes. Tim Ream delivered a sharp pass to Alex Freeman, who then set up Weston McKennie. The Juventus midfielder surged forward, passing to Pulisic as they approached the box. Pulisic then laid the ball off for McKennie, whose shot deflected off Damián Bobadilla and rolled into the net.
Unlike previous US teams that tended to ease off after scoring, this squad maintained relentless pressure. On his World Cup debut, Folarin Balogun netted a stunning brace in just 20 minutes. In the 31st minute, he converted a cross from Pulisic. His second goal came just before halftime; he received a pass from Tillman, skillfully maneuvered around Gustavo Gómez, and sent a shot into the top corner.
Pulisic was substituted at halftime, a decision that seemed more about caution than any injury concerns. Pochettino likely wanted to protect his star player from unnecessary fouls as Paraguay fought to regain control. Following the break, Paraguay showed improvement, tracking Balogun’s movements and tightening their defense to limit the space the US had enjoyed in the first half.
Eventually, Paraguay found a way to score. In the 73rd minute, the US were caught off guard following a restart by goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Tyler Adams attempted to clear the ball but it fell to Miguel Almirón outside the box, who quickly passed it to Julio Enciso. Enciso then set up substitute Maurício, who slotted his shot past Matt Freese.
This goal served as a consolation for Paraguay and highlighted some vulnerabilities in the US defense. Gaps existed for Paraguay to exploit, and there were questions about Freese’s hesitance to command his area. The upcoming matches against Australia and Turkey will likely challenge Freese further, and the defense must tighten up, even with a comfortable lead.
However, those concerns can wait. Since being announced as co-hosts for this World Cup, every US international’s performance has been scrutinized in light of the tournament. On Friday, the team exhibited a resolve to demonstrate their rightful place in the competition.
Ending on a high note is vital. As Paraguay worked to maintain their goal difference, Gio Reyna—who came on as a late substitute—curled the ball past Gill using the outside of his foot.
This World Cup cycle has been fraught with challenges, but it has also set the stage for this US team. Under the bright lights, they delivered a flawless first half, showcasing that they are ready for the spotlight.
