The United States launched their home World Cup in emphatic fashion Friday, defeating Paraguay 4-1 with a perfectly scripted opening performance to delight a star-studded home crowd in Los Angeles. France-based striker Folarin Balogun scored twice while relentless US pressure led to an early Paraguay own goal from Damian Bobadilla before Gio Reyna added a classy fourth with the last kick of the match. rcw/gj

FIFA World Cup cohosts United States begin their campaign against Paraguay, with Donald Trump's attendance in doubt.

The U.S. has opened its first home World Cup in 32 years with a dynamic 4-1 victory over Paraguay. Folarin Balogun scored twice in the Americans’ historic three-goal first half.