The United States launched their 2026 World Cup campaign with a thrilling 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Mexico at SoFi Stadium in a pulsating Group C clash.

Christian Pulisic stepped up in the 78th minute to convert a controversial penalty after VAR confirmed Johan Vasquez had handled the ball inside the box.

Mexico had fought back from an early deficit when Santiago Gimenez struck in the 54th minute to level the score.

With both teams now sitting on three points after Matchday 1, the result sets up an intriguing battle for supremacy in the group.

Pulisic's composure under pressure proved decisive as the United States claimed a hard-fought win in front of a raucous home crowd.