The United States... Not Trump's America

Pulisic. Balogun. Reyna. These are distinctly American names, aren't they? The United States' dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay showcased more than just the Stars and Stripes' evolving footballing quality, a team now refined under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino. Goals from Folarin Balogun, who bagged a brace, and Giovanni Reyna, who scored after a sublime assist from Captain America Christian Pulisic, highlighted the rich multicultural tapestry of a squad that ultimately reflects a national reality often denied by its leader: a certain Donald Trump.

While Washington tightens border controls and hardens its rhetoric, on the pitch, the richness of cultural diversity has been celebrated since the very first match.

These three footballers each carry profound stories of migration. Giovanni Reyna was born in England, but his roots stretch across South America and Europe. His paternal grandfather emigrated from Argentina, and his grandmother, Maria Silva, has Portuguese ancestry.

Folarin Balogun, on the other hand, was born in Brooklyn by chance when his Nigerian mother was visiting New York. Bureaucratic issues delayed her departure, extending her stay longer than anticipated and leading to his birth many miles from home. The forward later grew up in London, developed his skills at Arsenal, and ultimately chose to represent the United States.

Finally, Pulisic was born in Pennsylvania, but his grandfather's Croatian passport opened doors to Europe, specifically to Borussia Dortmund in Germany.

There are also Tillman, Sergiño, Weah, Pepi, and many more. Talent knows no borders, and the children of immigration are now proudly carrying the flag for the United States.