Pulisic Inspires Fast U.S. Start Against Paraguay in World Cup Opener

The United States opened the 2026 World Cup in excellent fashion on the night of Saturday into Sunday, controlling the match against Paraguay and taking an early lead in the 7th minute. The goal came from an unfortunate own goal by Damian Bobadilla, after a strong move involving Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie.

Israeli sports outlet Sport 5 said the Americans were on the front foot from the first whistle, while U.S. media praised the atmosphere and the team’s sharp start. ESPN wrote that the United States “came out of a cannon,” and said Pulisic arrived “hungry,” showing a big action from the very first moment. “If he keeps this up? Very good news for the United States,” ESPN added.

The Athletic highlighted the “amazing” atmosphere and said fans were celebrating wildly. It described McKennie and Pulisic as the team’s two stars and said Bobadilla was “in the wrong place at the wrong time.” The outlet added that Pulisic “kept his promises” and “came sharp” to the tournament.

Other American coverage went further, saying Pulisic proved why he is called “Captain America.” One report said he “cut easily through two defenders” and “plays a different kind of football, moves like Neymar.” Tom Bogert of CBS said he “rose to the occasion at the right moment.” Pulisic did not receive a goal or assist because the finish was recorded as an own goal, but he was still portrayed as the biggest star on the U.S. team after a disappointing club season with Milan, which failed to secure Champions League qualification.