One of the hosts of the 2026 World Cup, the USA surprised in their debut against Paraguay. Nicknamed “Golden Generation”the current American squad set the pace of the game to score 4-1 at Los Angeles Stadium.
With a packed stadium, the United States fans had the presence of celebrities in the stands. Katy Perry’s boyfriend, attraction at the opening ceremony, former Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau watched the match. Also present at the victory were: Tom Cruise, David Beckham, Paris Hilton and Bill Gates.
United States President Donald Trump did not attend the game. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio represented the US government.
First half
Led by the experienced Mauricio Pochettino, the so-called “Golden Generation” from the United States showed in the first stage of the match why they arrived at the World Cup surrounded by expectations to be among the greats of football. The American team set its pace and pushed the game towards the Paraguayan side.
The United States’ first goal came from an opponent’s feet. When trying to clear the ball, Bobadilla opened the scoring in the 7th minute. At 31, Pulisic crossed for Balogun, who pushed it into the goal. In stoppage time, the number 20 received the ball outside the penalty area, cleared the marker and blocked it at 55.
Second half
Back from the dressing room, Pulisic left the pitch for Berhalter to enter. On the Paraguayan side, Gustavo Alfaro removed Bobadilla and replaced Maurício. With the advantage built in the first half, the United States reduced the offensive intensity in a movement to increase possession of the ball, while Paraguay found more spaces to finish.
The result came in the 27th minute, in a play built from the defense field, Julio Enciso dominated, played to Maurício who finished with a cross. However, even with the slower pace, the Americans remained dangerous. A minute before the final whistle, Reyna hit a beautiful shot to seal the victory over the Paraguayans.
Lineups
USA: Matt Freese; Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Alex Freeman; Tyler Adams, Malik Tillman (Giovanni Reyna); Christian Pulisic (Sebastian Berhalter), Weston McKennie, Sergino Dest (Timothy Weah); Folarin Balogun (Ricardo Pepi). Mauricio Pochettino.
Paraguay: Orlando Gill; Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, Júnior Alonso, Juan José Cáceres (Gustavo Velázquez); Miguel Almirón (Ramón Sosa), Damián Bobadilla (Maurício), Andrés Cubas, Diego Gómez (Gamarra); Julio Enciso, Antonio Sanabria (Alex Arce). Gustavo Alfaro.
