The United States opened their World Cup campaign with a 4‑1 triumph over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, but the match was marred by a VAR blunder that left fans stunned. Midfielder Tim Ream drew a free‑kick and a yellow card for a challenge on Miguel Almiron. After a replay, the referee overturned the card, only to book Almiron instead.

That sequence was the first time FIFA’s new mistaken‑identity rule kicked in at a World Cup. The law allows a booking or sending‑off to be reversed if the wrong player is identified. Referee Danny Makkelie used the rule to rescind Ream’s caution, a move never seen before in a knockout‑style match during the match today.

Former Everton defender Ashley Williams called the decision “bizarre but fair play” after the free‑kick was allowed to stand. Co‑commentator Danny Murphy praised the rule change, saying that harsher penalties for diving help keep the game clean. Both voices highlighted the urgency of clear officiating in high‑stakes tournaments for teams and fans worldwide again.

With Folarin Balogun scoring twice, he became the second U.S. player to net a brace in a World Cup match. Paraguay’s lone goal came from Mauricio, while Giovanni Reyna finished the night with a 20‑yard curling strike. The victory sets the U.S. on a solid path as they chase a deep run in the tournament.