Balogun brace fires USA to 4-1 rout as Canada earn first ever World Cup point

Folarin Balogun scored twice as the United States produced a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay on day two of the 2026 World Cup, while Canada made history by earning their first ever World Cup point in a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

USA announce themselves under Pochettino

Few expected much from co-host nation USA heading into this tournament, but Mauricio Pochettino’s side wasted no time in challenging that narrative. The USMNT played with intensity and precision against Paraguay, overloading their South American opponents with a quick, slick passing game that drew admiring glances from neutrals worldwide.

At the centre of it all was Balogun, whose brace gave him an early lead in the Golden Boot standings. Golden Boot winners historically finish tournaments with six to eight goals, and the striker is already on his way — provided the USA advance deep enough to give him the platform to compete.

The manner of the performance, as much as the scoreline, signalled that Pochettino’s side could be a genuine force in front of a home crowd as the tournament progresses.

Canada’s historic moment

The day’s earlier fixture was a tighter affair, with Canada hosting Bosnia and Herzegovina in an opening game that featured a ceremony including performances from Michael Bublé.

On the pitch, however, the home side struggled in the first half. Jovo Lukic struck after 21 minutes to give Bosnia and Herzegovina a half-time lead, and the Balkans looked the stronger side throughout the opening 45.

Jesse Marsch’s half-time team talk appeared to transform Canada’s approach. They came out with renewed purpose after the break, dominating possession and creating chance after chance before Cyle Larin finally drew them level in the 78th minute.

Canada finished the game with 60 per cent of the possession, 13 shots to Bosnia’s eight, and the better expected goals figures — yet a winner proved elusive. Bosnia and Herzegovina defended with discipline to hold on for a share of the spoils.

The point, while perhaps not the result Canada had hoped for on home soil, is nonetheless a landmark moment. It is the first time in their history that Canada have taken a point at a World Cup — a milestone that will not be forgotten regardless of how the rest of their campaign unfolds.

Day two in context

Day two provided a sharp contrast to the chaos of day one, when the Mexico vs South Africa fixture was marred by a remarkable number of red cards. Instead, Friday’s action delivered goals, a historic moment for the Maple Leafs, and an early statement of intent from the tournament’s most high-profile co-host.