The host United States opened the 2026 World Cup with a 4-1 win over Paraguay, securing a strong start. After the match, head coach Pochettino did not dwell only on goals and numbers; instead, he credited the victory to the team’s collective approach and the home energy from the stands—an atmosphere so intense it felt almost woven into the stadium itself.
The last time this U.S. side scored four goals in a single World Cup match was a long time ago; forward Balogun bagged a brace in this game, becoming the first American player to score twice in a World Cup since the 1930 tournament. Though Balogun, Pulisic and McKennie all stood out, Pochettino was keener to spread the praise to everyone—from starters and substitutes to the staff behind the scenes. Pulisic was substituted in the first half due to a calf injury, and how quickly he recovers will directly shape the lineup choices ahead in the group stage.
The numbers also showed the rout was no fluke. Our database shows the United States had 65% possession, 16 shots with six on target, and an 85% passing success rate; Paraguay managed only 35% possession, nine shots and one on target. The U.S. currently ranks 16th in the FIFA rankings, while Paraguay sits 40th. With a home World Cup coming only once every four years, the team spent several weeks training together before the tournament, allowing the coaching staff to refine tactics systematically rather than rushing through squad selection as in past national-team camps.
“As long as the fans can keep this energy, we can do something amazing,” Pochettino said—words that sounded more like a description of a live cultural resonance: Stars and Stripes jerseys, terrace chants and collective belief layered together to underpin this commanding opening performance by the hosts. Group D still has Turkey and Australia to play; beyond winning, the United States must carry this “all for one” mindset from the opener into the rest of the group schedule.
