Balogun becomes first US player since 1930 to net multiple goals in World Cup game

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (TNND) — The U.S. opened its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a historic offensive performance, scoring four goals in a World Cup match for the first time in team history with a 4-1 win over Paraguay.

Folarin Balogun scored twice to become the first American player since 1930 to net multiple goals in a World Cup match, helping propel the U.S. to a statement win in its tournament opener.

“I visualized my debut in the World Cup scoring, but the reality did surpass that,” Balogun said. “A very dreamy night.”

In 1930, Bert Patenaude scored all three goals in a 3-0 U.S. win over Paraguay, the first hat trick in World Cup history.

Balogun’s two goals highlighted a dominant offensive display as the U.S. repeatedly broke through Paraguay’s defense and controlled much of the match.

The four-goal outburst marked another milestone for the Americans, who had never before scored at least four goals in a men’s World Cup game.

Ahead of the game, President Donald Trump called the team to offer them well wishes.

The president, who spoke to Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino, offered words of encouragement and expressed confidence in their chances on soccer’s biggest stage.

“I know how great the players are. I think you’ve got a really good chance of going all the way,” Trump said during the call, describing Pochettino as a “fantastic coach. “So, I just want to wish you a lot of luck.”

The Americans will look to build on their record-setting start when they return to action in their next match.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: The Associated Press contributed to this report.