The United States ticked an important box as co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup, thrashing Paraguay 4-1 in the first Group D game. Folarin Balogun was the star of the show, scoring two first-half goals to steer the hosts into a dominant 3-0 halftime lead.
Balogun, a 24-year-old Brooklyn-born forward, chose to play for the USA on the basis of his birthright citizenship. He could have played for Nigeria, the country of his parents, or England, where he was raised and played most of his football.
The USA's victory came despite concerns among fans about exorbitant ticket prices and visa issues. New York mayor Zohran Mamdani exhorted fans to celebrate "the working class" sport, while supporters complained about the pricing of match tickets and transport.
The USA will next play Australia in Seattle on June 20, while Canada move to Vancouver, where they will play Qatar on June 19.
