Balogun living World Cup 'dream' as U.S. choice pays off - ESPN

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — United States striker Folarin Balogun said his two goals in Friday's 4-1 World Cup victory over Paraguay made for a «dreamy night.»

After the U.S. went ahead on an own goal from Paraguay's Damián Bobadilla, Balogun struck twice before halftime to become the first U.S. men's national player to score two goals in a World Cup game since the inaugural tournament in 1930.

-Carlisle: Four goals and an electric display: USMNT's World Cup opener was nearly perfect
— USMNT player ratings: Balogun, Pulisic team-best performances lead dazzling opener
— Pulisic subbed off at halftime, 'hoping it's nothing'

Balogun netted his first goal in the 31st minute as Christian Pulisic's deflected centering feed sat up perfectly for him to score from 14 yards. Then, deep into first-half stoppage time, Balogun collected a through ball from Malik Tillman, shrugged off a challenge from a defender, dribbled to his left and delivered a venomous strike into the top left-hand corner of the goal.

Maurício scored for Paraguay in the 73rd minute, but the USMNT's Gio Reyna capped the opening night for the World Cup co-host with a sublime stoppage-time goal struck with the outside of his right foot.

Afterward, Balogun said he hadn't fully grasped what transpired.

«A real dream, it's a dreamy night,» he said. «I've not been able to take it all in. I'm sure when I get back to my hotel, I'm going to be able to be in the moment and experience how much of an amazing night this is.»

The U.S. forward's performance was noted by Pulisic, who said he is grateful to have a striker of Balogun's ability playing alongside him.

«The kid's insane. He's lethal right now,» Pulisic said. «We're really lucky to have him. Let's just hope it keeps coming