INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) – The atmosphere was electric at the Inglewood stadium as over 70,000 fans gathered for the U.S. men's soccer team’s home opener in the World Cup against Paraguay on Friday, June 12, 2026. The event marked a significant occasion for soccer in the United States, bringing together passionate supporters dressed in team jerseys and adorned with red-white-and-blue face paint.

The match concluded with an impressive 4-1 victory for the U.S. team, a result that saw fans celebrating a sport that has been historically overshadowed by American football, basketball, and baseball. Many supporters paid exorbitant prices for tickets, with some even shelling out thousands to witness the match. This turnout reflects a growing enthusiasm for soccer in the U.S., as fans believe the sport is experiencing a renaissance.

Among the supporters was Nakisha Gutierrez, a 37-year-old occupational therapist from Los Angeles. Gutierrez expressed how soccer has been a family tradition, saying, “It’s in the family blood.” Her Argentine father nurtured their love for the game, and now the next generation is also participating in soccer, highlighting its integration into American culture.

The World Cup, held every four years, garners immense interest globally, with countries celebrating their participation in various grand ways. However, the response in the U.S. has traditionally been more subdued. Since hosting the World Cup in 1994 and the establishment of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1996, soccer's popularity has grown, particularly among younger generations of athletes.

The match against Paraguay featured thrilling moments, with Folarin Balogun netting two goals in the first half and Christian Pulisic providing an assist leading to an own goal by Paraguay. The excitement peaked when Gio Reyna scored the final goal during added time, sealing the lopsided victory and prompting a spirited celebration from the fans. Samuel Esquivel, a 9-year-old fan, shared his joy, stating, “That was probably, like, the second best goal,” and conveyed his aspirations of winning a World Cup one day.

Roman Esquivel, Samuel’s father, expressed how soccer has captivated his family, even as they have roots in other sports like football, basketball, and baseball. He emphasized soccer’s universal appeal, stating, “It’s the most beautiful sport in the world. There’s a reason why the whole world plays soccer.”

Fan interest has also been fueled by immigrants from countries where soccer is a significant part of the culture. Ava Cupit, a 14-year-old from Franklin, Tennessee, recounted her family’s deep connection to the sport, tracing back to her great-grandfather, who helped establish soccer in their town. Her mother, Rachel, echoed the sentiment of unity through soccer, noting how the sport has woven into their family fabric.

The stadium, primarily a venue for football games, transformed into a vibrant spectacle of red, white, and blue. Fans showcased their support through creative outfits, including American patriot-inspired costumes and a variety of spirited apparel. Many attendees were eager to follow the U.S. team's journey, attending multiple matches in hopes of seeing their nation succeed on the world stage.

Jose Contreras, who described himself as a soccer “addict,” traveled from Georgia to be part of this historic event, sharing fond memories of playing soccer in Mexico. Despite options to attend games closer to home, he stated, “This is one of the happiest days of my life,” highlighting the deep emotional connection many fans feel toward the sport and the national team.