USA rout Paraguay and Canada held as the World Cup's host nations begin

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The United States made an emphatic start to their home World Cup, beating Paraguay 4-1 in their opening group game. Folarin Balogun scored twice as the hosts led 3-0 by half-time, and Giovanni Reyna rounded off the win with a curling trivela finish, handing Mauricio Pochettino's side an early statement of intent.

Canada's start was more subdued, the co-hosts held to a 1-1 draw by Bosnia and Herzegovina. Jovo Lukić put Bosnia ahead early, and Canada needed until the 78th minute to level through Cyle Larin, leaving them to settle for a point on opening night.

Saturday brings the tournament's first heavyweight fixture, with Brazil facing Morocco, while Scotland open against Haiti and Qatar meet Switzerland.

Transfer and squad notes

Brazil head into their opener still uncertain over Neymar, who has been rated a doubt as he works back from a calf injury, according to the tournament's injury reporting. Their coaching staff have prepared without him as a guaranteed starter.

The early group picture is taking shape: the United States sit top of their group after the rout, while Canada's draw leaves them sharing the early points with Bosnia, underlining the fine margins the expanded format can produce.

What it means for the league

The host nations offered a study in contrasts, with the United States flying out of the blocks and Canada left to regroup after dropping points at home. With the field now widening to take in Brazil, Scotland and others on Saturday, the opening round will quickly separate the sides finding their rhythm from those already under pressure.

Attention now centres on whether Brazil can ease past Morocco with or without Neymar, a result that would set the tone for one of the tournament favourites as the group stage gathers pace.