The U.S. men’s national soccer team achieved a significant milestone with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marked the first time the U.S. scored at least four goals in a World Cup match, and it was their first three-goal margin win in such a tournament since 1930, when they also triumphed over Paraguay.

Folarin Balogun, a 24-year-old forward, made history by becoming the first American player since 1930 to score multiple goals in a World Cup game. His performance played a crucial role in the U.S. team’s remarkable start on Friday night in Southern California.

The game saw an electrifying start as Paraguay’s Damián Bobadilla scored an own goal within the first six minutes, granting the U.S. an early lead. Balogun then scored his first World Cup goal in the 30th minute, doubling the U.S.’s advantage. By the end of the first half, Balogun had added a second goal, igniting the crowd’s excitement at SoFi Stadium.

Despite sustaining a three-goal lead, the U.S. team continued to push forward. Paraguay managed to score once in the 73rd minute, lowering their deficit. However, the U.S. solidified their victory when the young talent Gio Reyna found the net in the game’s final moments, ensuring three points in the World Cup standings for the American team.

Balogun’s journey to the World Cup is notable. Born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents but raised in London, Balogun developed his skills at the Arsenal academy. Discovered at age eight while playing in a local London league, he later opted to represent the U.S. national team, swayed by the overwhelming support from American fans.

The 2026 World Cup showcases new talents for the U.S., signaling a strong beginning in an event held on American soil for the first time in three decades.