The US's resounding victory over Paraguay's Balogun: I believe this will greatly benefit the team.

In their opening match of Group D at the 2026 World Cup, the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1, thanks to an own goal and goals from Balogun and Giovanni Reyna. Balogun stated that this victory would greatly benefit the team in the upcoming matches.

In the 7th minute, Pulisic dealt with a defensive cross, which Juventus midfielder McKennie received and passed to Bobadilla, who inadvertently kicked the ball into his own net while attempting to clear it, giving the United States a dream start of 1-0. In the 31st minute, Pulisic crossed again, and Balogun seized the opportunity to fire a low shot into the net, extending the United States' lead over Paraguay to 2-0.

In the first half stoppage time, Malik Tillman made a through pass from the center circle, and Balogun received the pass, broke into the penalty area, and volleyed past the defense to score, making the score 3-0.

In the 73rd minute of the second half, Mauricio received a diagonal pass from Julio Enciso and slotted the ball into the net, helping Paraguay pull one back to 1-3. In stoppage time of the second half, Alex Freeman passed the ball to Giovanni Reina, who unleashed a long-range shot to extend the United States' lead to 4-1.

Ultimately, the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 at SoFi Stadium, securing a winning start to the season.

Balogun, who scored two goals for the United States, said, "This is an incredible and wonderful day, and a moment I've been dreaming of. One of the main reasons I chose to represent the United States is that I wanted to stand on the biggest stage and repay the fans for their support."

"Being able to play in front of our home fans means a lot to me. The World Cup is being held on our soil, and I am very happy and proud of the whole team. Overcoming the nervousness of the first game in this way is very meaningful for us, and I believe it will be a great help to the team."

Balogun also said, "Perhaps this is fate. I know I have scored against Paraguay before, and to be able to do it again on a bigger stage is a dream come true."

In addition, U.S. forward Ricardo Pepi said in an interview, "This victory puts us in a good position and shows the excellent teamwork and chemistry between the players."

“We are ready for the next game, and the team atmosphere is very positive. Being able to play at home, I think it will be a fantastic World Cup opening match, and the atmosphere at the stadium is also amazing.”

Image source: Internet