The United States men's national soccer team began its 2026 World Cup journey with a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles on Friday, June 12.
An own goal by Paraguay's Fabian Bobadilla in the seventh minute gave the hosts an early lead.
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The deflection came from a Weston McKennie shot following a pass from Christian Pulisic.
Striker Folarin Balogun extended the advantage to 3-0 before halftime.
He converted a Pulisic pass in the 31st minute and scored again during stoppage time after evading the Paraguayan defense.
Paraguay pulled one back in the 73rd minute when Mauricio capitalized on their first clear opportunity. The goal reduced the deficit to 3-1.
United States manager Mauricio Pochettino then substituted Ricardo Pepi and Timothy Weah into the game.
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Giovanni Reyna sealed the 4-1 victory in the final minute of stoppage time. He curled a late strike into the far corner using the outside of his foot.
Infantino's Comments Spark Controversy
During the match, FIFA President Gianni Infantino made satirical remarks about Italy's failure to qualify for the tournament in a television interview with Brazilian station CazéTV.
"Perhaps Italy will qualify for a World Cup with 64 teams, or maybe we will go to 228 teams," Infantino said.
The comments drew immediate criticism from Italian political leadership. Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi requested an official discussion with Infantino.
"Given the great distance between Italy and Mexico, a phone call, depending on his schedule, is most appropriate to clarify this.
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I am curious to hear his thoughts," Abodi told Italian press agency ANSA.
