Christian Pulisic was pulled at halftime in the U.S. opener against Paraguay, leaving the team ahead 3‑0 halftime. The winger said a kick to the back of his left calf caused a sudden tightness, prompting a precautionary exit. Pulisic had driven the first goal and set up the second.

Balogun’s brace gave the U.S. a historic first half advantage, the first time a team leads 3‑0 at the break in World Cup history. The goal‑scorer’s second netted a 3‑1 lead before Paraguay’s late equaliser. Reyna capped the match with a late strike to seal a 4‑1 win for the American fans and the national team.

Pochettino explained the substitution as a safety move after Pulisic reported difficulty walking. The coach said the winger felt tightness and risk was avoided. Despite the change, the U.S. finished the match comfortably, setting a record for the first team to lead 3‑0 at halftime in a World Cup opening game for the nation today.

The result locks the U.S. into a favorable Group D position, with a win over Paraguay keeping hopes alive against Australia and Turkey. Balogun’s historic brace and Pulisic’s early influence underline the squad’s offensive potency, while the injury scare highlights the need for depth as the tournament progresses and preparation.