Doubts about the USA’s readiness to handle the spotlight of hosting the 2026 World Cup vanished within just 45 spectacular minutes against Paraguay on Saturday.
With a dazzling pre-game atmosphere featuring a performance by Katy Perry and Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise cheering from the stands, it would have been easy for the team to feel overwhelmed. However, they rose to the occasion, netting three goals in a thrilling first half and capping it off with a stunning fourth goal from Gio Reyna in stoppage time, leading to a convincing 4-1 victory and a perfect start in Group D.
Even before this impressive display, some keen observers recognized the potential of the USA team, which has evolved significantly under the guidance of former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino over the past 20 months.
Tony Meola, a former USA goalkeeper, believes the team is now on a trajectory to compete with the world’s best. “We are so much more established now,” said Meola, who was part of the US squads in the 1990, 1994, and 2002 World Cups. “Our players are performing globally, we have an incredible league, and our facilities are top-notch. Just a few years ago, that seemed like a distant dream; now, we’ve truly become a football nation.”
This victory marks the first time since 1930 that the USA has won a World Cup match by three goals, a result that is sure to catch the attention of other teams in the tournament.
“USA were unbelievable,” praised England legend Ellen White on BBC Match of the Day. “They faced pressure head-on, embraced it, and likely shocked the world with that performance.”
