New Delhi: The second matchday of the FIFA World Cup 2026 witnessed two host nations make a strong start to their campaigns, with the United States producing a record-breaking win and Canada ending a decades-long goal drought.
The USA thrilled a packed crowd in Los Angeles with a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their Group D opener. Forward Folarin Balogun starred with two goals as the hosts raced to a 3-0 lead by halftime, recording their biggest-ever win at a World Cup.
The Americans struck first through an own goal forced by Christian Pulisic, who was influential throughout the opening half. Balogun then found the net twice before Gio Reyna added a fourth goal deep into stoppage time.
The victory also marked the first time the USA scored four goals in a World Cup match. Under new coach Mauricio Pochettino, the team displayed an attacking style that delighted the 70,000-plus fans in attendance.
Paraguay managed a consolation goal through Mauricio in the second half, but the South American side could not recover from the early deficit.
In Toronto, co-hosts Canada secured a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group B, earning their first World Cup point after six consecutive defeats across previous editions.
Substitute Cyle Larin emerged as the hero, scoring in the 78th minute after coming off the bench just two minutes earlier. The strike was only Canada’s second goal in World Cup history and sparked celebrations among home supporters.
Bosnia and Herzegovina had taken the lead in the 21st minute through Jovo Lukic, who headed in from a corner.
Despite conceding late, Bosnia continued to impress in only their second World Cup appearance. For Canada, however, the night belonged to Larin and a team that finally ended years of frustration on football’s biggest stage.
