The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) faced Paraguay in a group stage match at Los Angeles Stadium, kicking off at 9 p.m. ET. Coached by Mauricio Pochettino, the USMNT entered the contest ranked No. 17 in the FIFA World Rankings.
The match started favorably for the United States after Paraguay’s Damián Bobadilla scored an own goal in the sixth minute. This gave the American side an early lead. Fans in the crowded stadium in Inglewood, California, celebrated the first goal with enthusiasm.
Folarin Balogun increased the lead for the United States in the 30th minute, marking his first goal in the World Cup. Balogun’s strike was significant, as it helped the U.S. reach a two-goal lead quickly, the third-fastest they have achieved this in World Cup history. This impressive feat was preceded only by matches from 2002 and 1930.
Balogun scored again just before halftime, extending the lead further and exciting the crowd in the stadium. He received a precise pass from teammate Malik Tillman and managed an outstanding goal into the top-left corner.
Team USA secured a 3-0 lead as they headed into the break.
In the 73rd minute, midfielder Mauricio scored for Paraguay, reducing the deficit to 3-1. The USMNT will face Australia next in Seattle on June 19.
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