USA defeats Paraguay 4-1 while 17‑year‑old Gilberto Mora becomes Mexico’s youngest World Cup player

Opening day of the FIFA World Cup 2026 saw host United States thrash Paraguay 4‑1, the first time the US has scored four goals in a World Cup match. An early own‑goal gave the Americans the lead, Balogun added two strikes before halftime and Reyna completed the tally late in the game, putting the US top of Group D.

In the same round, 17‑year‑old Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora entered as a substitute in the 65th minute, becoming the youngest player ever to appear for Mexico at a World Cup and breaking a 96‑year record previously held by Manuel “Cháquetas” Rosas.

South Africa’s tournament began with a 0‑2 defeat to Mexico. Coach Hugo Bruz criticised a second red‑card decision, saying the expelled player had not committed a foul, and warned that the team’s defensive frailties must be addressed.