USA Defeats Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup Opener; Pulisic Injured, Richards Sets Passing Record
The United States began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay, highlighted by Folarin Balogun's two goals and Christian Pulisic's influential play. Pulisic was substituted at half-time after sustaining a calf injury from a kick during the match and a prior training knock. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino emphasized the precautionary nature of the substitution, expressing hope for Pulisic's availability in the next game. Defender Chris Richards set a World Cup record by completing 83 passes with 100% accuracy, the highest since 1966.