California, 13 June (H.S.): Co-hosts the United States made a commanding start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, defeating Paraguay 4-1 in a Group D encounter on Saturday. Striker Folarin Balogun starred in the victory with two goals at SoFi Stadium in California.

The United States adopted an aggressive approach from the opening whistle and took the lead in the seventh minute. Paraguay midfielder Damián Bobadilla inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to make a clearance, handing the hosts an early advantage.

Buoyed by the opening goal, the Americans continued to dominate proceedings. Paraguay’s defensive line struggled to cope with the relentless pressure, allowing Balogun to strike twice in the first half and give the United States a commanding 3-0 lead before the interval.

At the start of the second half, head coach Mauricio Pochettino opted to rest star player Christian Pulisic. Although the hosts were unable to add immediately to their tally, they maintained complete control of the contest.

Paraguay reduced the deficit in the 74th minute through substitute Mauricio, but the South Americans were unable to mount a sustained comeback.

In the closing moments, Giovanni Reyna added a fourth goal to seal an emphatic 4-1 victory for the United States.

With the win, the United States moved provisionally to the top of Group D. The group's other fixture will see Türkiye face Australia.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar