USMNT Beats Paraguay 4-1 as Balogun and Richards Drive Pochettino’s World Cup Blueprint
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 14
USMNT Beats Paraguay 4-1 as Balogun and Richards Drive Pochettino’s World Cup Blueprint
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 14
Summary
A 4-1 U.S. win over Paraguay was powered by control through midfield, where Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman repeatedly found space and stretched a disorganized defense.
Chris Richards anchored the buildup from the back, completing 83 passes at 100% accuracy while linking with Tyler Adams, Tim Ream and Alex Freeman to launch attacks.
Folarin Balogun gave the U.S. the striker presence it long lacked, using his movement and strength to exploit the channels and finish chances created by the system.
The performance suggested Mauricio Pochettino’s setup has evolved beyond the Pulisic-centric attack that stalled at the 2024 Copa América, with Tillman’s rise helping offset Yunus Musah’s decline.
With tougher Group D opposition in Turkey and likely stronger knockout opponents ahead, the result offered evidence the co-hosts may be building momentum at the right time.