USMNT wins heated friendly against Paraguay 2-1 as Balogun and Reyna shine

Reyna and Balogun Lead the Way

The goals came from two key attacking players who stepped up in the absence of stars:

• Gio Reyna scored his first USMNT goal since March 2024 and his first-ever career header in the fourth minute, marking a successful return in his first appearance since March 2025. Reyna also helped create the decisive goal.

• Folarin Balogun netted the game-winner in the 71st minute, his third goal in the last four games for the USMNT, confirming his strong form at a critical time for the squad.

The USMNT played in the back three formation favored by Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino, which is providing the team with critical flexibility and room for error as they approach the 2026 World Cup on home soil.

WE WERE KNOCKIN' ON THE DOOR AND FOLARIN BALOGUN ANSWERED!#USMNT x @VW pic.twitter.com/XljM4c9if5 — U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) November 15, 2025

World Cup Preparation Heats Up

The friendly against Paraguay, a team that recently secured its return to the World Cup, marks the beginning of the final international break of 2025. Pochettino, who has called in 71 players during his tenure in an extensive search for talent, is starting to see the payoff from his experimentation, utilizing "unearthly gems" like Diego Luna, Max Arfsten, and Tanner Tessemann.

Pochettino’s squad now faces an even tougher test on Tuesday, taking on Uruguay, another formidable South American opponent, where a signature win without their biggest stars could further solidify the belief in the team's potential for the tournament.