Additional Coverage:
Following the United States men’s national soccer team’s commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup opener, some skeptical fans took to social media to accuse the match of being “rigged.” These claims emerged shortly after the game, which saw the U.S. dominate from the outset and secure a strong start in the tournament hosted jointly by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
The tournament kicked off on Thursday with co-host Mexico’s win against South Africa at the iconic Azteca Stadium. The U.S. team, buoyed by a recent message of support from former President Donald Trump, stepped onto the field on Friday, eager to put months of pre-tournament controversy behind them.
From the seventh minute, the U.S. displayed clear dominance. Christian Pulisic broke through Paraguay’s defense, delivering a cross that led to an own goal by Paraguayan midfielder Damian Bobadilla. Despite the legitimate nature of the goal, some online commentators suggested foul play, alleging that Paraguay had been bribed to aid the hosts’ victory.
Comments such as “This is rigged to make America look good” and “Clearly rigged. Literally paid the other team to kick it into their own net” circulated quickly on platforms like X, casting doubt on the integrity of the match.
However, there is no evidence supporting these accusations. Paraguay simply struggled to keep pace as the U.S. capitalized on their opportunities.
Monaco striker Folarin Balogun, one of the standout young talents in coach Mauricio Pochettino’s squad, added two more goals before halftime. His first came in the 31st minute after a well-placed cross from Pulisic, and his second was a stunning solo effort just before the break. Balogun’s brace marked a historic moment, making him only the second U.S. player to score twice in a World Cup match, joining Bert Patenaude who achieved a hat trick against Paraguay back in 1930.
With a comfortable 3-0 lead, Pochettino rested Pulisic at halftime. Paraguay managed to pull a goal back due to some defensive lapses, but Gio Reyna sealed the win late in the game with a skillful finish, securing the 4-1 victory.
The win places the U.S. atop Group D as they prepare to face Australia next Friday, June 19. Despite the conspiracy theories circulating online, the team’s strong performance speaks for itself as they continue their quest in the World Cup.