The United States made a memorable start to its first home World Cup in 32 years, defeating Paraguay 4-1 on Friday night in Inglewood, California.

Forward Folarin Balogun led the way with two goals during a dominant first-half display, helping the Americans build a commanding 3-0 lead before halftime—the largest halftime advantage in U.S. World Cup history.

Captain Christian Pulisic played a key role in the attack, providing an assist and helping create the opening goal, which came through a Paraguayan own goal. Balogun then added goals in the 31st minute and deep into first-half stoppage time to put the match firmly under U.S. control.

The Americans continued to press after the break under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, whose attacking system appeared to unlock a new level of creativity from the team. Midfielder Gio Reyna capped the performance with a goal in second-half stoppage time, giving the U.S. four goals in a World Cup match for the first time ever.

Paraguay pulled one back in the second half through Maurício, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome in the team's first World Cup appearance in 16 years.

The victory marked the largest World Cup win in U.S. history and highlighted a dramatic improvement from the team's last tournament appearance in Qatar, where it scored only three goals across four matches.

Balogun's two-goal performance was especially significant, as it became the first multi-goal World Cup game by a U.S. player since 1930. Born in New York and raised in London, the 24-year-old striker chose to represent the United States over England and has quickly emerged as one of the team's most important attacking players.