The US men’s national team has turned the opening minutes of World Cup matches into a recurring nightmare for opponents. In every group stage game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the USMNT found the back of the net within the first 12 minutes.
The fast-start formula
Against Paraguay on June 12, the US opened the scoring in the 7th minute. The goal was technically an own goal, but it was forced by the combined pressure of Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, who were both credited with involvement in the buildup. That early strike set the tone for what became a dominant 4-1 victory.
Then came Australia. The USMNT did it again, this time finding the net in the 11th minute. Another own goal, another case of relentless early pressing making opponents crack. Alex Freeman added a second goal to seal a 2-0 win.
Why early goals matter more than you think
