He rejected England, stars at the World Cup, and charmed the world. USA hero after two goals: "I'll probably just watch some Netflix"

The Americans entered the tournament under pressure. A series of losses in recent friendlies cast doubt on their ability to advance from the group stage. However, their very first match revealed a completely different side to Mauricio Pochettino's team.

The US effectively decided the match in the first half. The scoring was opened after seven minutes by an own goal from Paraguayan defender Damián Bobadilla, followed by a brace from Folarin Balogun. The striker, who was born in New York, grew up in London, and represented England at youth levels, was living out a dream after the match.

The 24-year-old forward became the first player to score two goals in a single match at the 2026 World Cup. His story is one of the most interesting in American soccer. After breaking through at Arsenal's academy, he shone during a loan spell at French club Reims before transferring to Monaco.

Both England and the USA vied for his international allegiance, with the US reportedly giving him a royal welcome, including trips to Florida and courtside seats at NBA games. When asked how he planned to celebrate his exceptional performance, he replied with a smile: "Honestly? I'll probably just watch some Netflix."

Balogun also gave a nod to the American fans who had urged him to choose the United States. "Throughout this whole journey, the fans have given me so much support. I've always wanted to repay their faith. Today was a great opportunity to show that I made the right decision," he stated.

US captain Tim Ream called the result an ideal start to the tournament. "An amazing result. This is exactly how we wanted to start the championship. Four goals and three points set you up for the rest of the group stage," said the experienced 38-year-old defender from English club Fulham.

The stands were also filled with famous faces. Singer Katy Perry performed before kickoff, and the match was watched by Hollywood stars Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Halle Berry. The home team treated the crowd to an attacking style of football, leading 3-0 after a dominant first half.

Balogun also earned praise from teammate Christian Pulisic. "The guy is unbelievable. He's lethal in front of goal right now. Hopefully, he can keep it up for as long as possible," said America's biggest current soccer idol.

Paraguayan coach Gustavo Alfaro admitted after the match that his team was outmatched in every aspect. "We knew it would be tough. If you're not prepared defensively, it can be painful. They dominated us tactically, technically, and physically," he concluded.

The USA still has group stage matches against Australia and Turkey, but this dominant start has significantly boosted their ambitions of advancing to the knockout rounds. If they maintain the form they showed against Paraguay, they could become one of the most pleasant surprises of their home tournament.