The United States opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay on Friday at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, delivering a performance that energized a star-studded home crowd. The hosts secured a rapid 3-0 lead in the first half, with Folarin Balogun scoring twice and an early own goal by Paraguay’s Damian Bobadilla contributing to the dominant display. Substitute Gio Reyna added a late fourth goal, sealing a confident start for the US team under coach Mauricio Pochettino in Group D.

The US entered the tournament amid doubts following a series of disappointing pre-tournament friendlies. However, their display on Friday dispelled concerns as they imposed relentless pressure from the outset. Captain Tim Ream described the result as “amazing” and emphasized its importance for setting the tone for the group stage. The match drew a crowd of 70,492, including celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Halle Berry, and pop singer Katy Perry, who performed just before kickoff.

Paraguay’s sole goal came in the 73rd minute, scored by Brazil-born Mauricio after a lapse in the US defense. Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, stating that the US dominated tactically, technically, and physically. “We knew it was going to be difficult and that if we weren’t ready defensively it could be painful,” Alfaro said.

Meanwhile, co-host Canada earned its first-ever World Cup point on home soil in a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina at Toronto’s BMO Field. Canada trailed after a early header by Jovo Lukic but was rescued by Cyle Larin’s second-half equalizer. Larin, who has consistently delivered in crucial moments for Canada, expressed satisfaction with the result. The match was witnessed by a full crowd that included Canadian film personalities Ryan Reynolds and Mike Myers. Notably, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau opted to attend the US opener in Los Angeles instead of the national game, coinciding with Katy Perry’s performance there.

Friday’s fixtures set the stage for a busy weekend of World Cup action with eight teams in play on Saturday. Among the highlights, Brazil, five-time champions, begin their quest for a sixth title against Morocco in East Rutherford, New Jersey, as part of Group C. Scotland returns to the tournament after a long absence, facing Haiti, while Australia will face Turkey in Vancouver, and host Qatar will take on Switzerland in Santa Clara, California.

This edition of the expanded 48-team World Cup is scheduled to conclude with the final on July 19 in New Jersey.