The United States men’s national team showed the doubters, if there were any, that they could showcase their talents this Friday night. Well, that answer was questioned as the US took care of Paraguay 4-1 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.
Christian Pulisic would score the first two goals before leaving at the half. The midfield trio of Tyler Adams, Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie was dominant for long stretches, full of slick combinations and touches going forward and providing relentless defensive pressure when asked to retreat. The much-maligned backline — which welcomed the return of center back Chris Richards — was solid for the most part, though it did concede Mauricio‘s 73rd-minute tally
And then there was Folarin Balogun. The AS Monaco forward has long been viewed as the missing piece to this U.S. side since switching his allegiance from England back in 2023. There have been moments, like the 2023 Concacaf Nations League final win over Canada, when he has met those expectations. But the World Cup is a stage like no other, and Balogun delivered a spectacular performance with two impressive finishes, the first showing total composure and the second the perfect combination of precision and power.
Balogun is the first USMNT player to score a pair of goals since 1930, when Bert Patenaude scored a hat trick , also against Paraguay.
“It’s a dream. It’s a dreamy night,” Balogun said afterwards. “I’ve not been able to take it all in after this. I’m sure when I get back to my hotel, and I rest, I’m sure I’m going to really be able to be in the moment and experience how much of an amazing night this is.”
The USMNT did not look back as the crowd was into it from SoFi Stadium and all over the United States, including at the FIFA Watch Party nearby Shell Energy Stadium for the Fan Festival and inside Shell Energy Stadium.
“I just got a bit of a kick first half so I’m really hoping that it’s nothing. Taking a little bit of precaution today but I’m hoping I’ll be fine the next few days,” Pulisic told Fox Sports. He added, “Just the back of my leg, my calf area. But I’ve had similar things before and I’m staying positive. I don’t think it’s anything at all.”
This team looked very impressive Friday night, showing that they are a force to be reckoned with in the World Cup.
