USMNT Begins 2026 World Cup Campaign Against Paraguay

The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) kicks off its 2026 World Cup campaign against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. This Group D encounter marks a crucial start for the U.S., who previously defeated Paraguay 2-1 in a friendly encounter last year. Coach Mauricio Pochettino leads the team, with expectations high for a strong showing on home soil.

Key Team News

Chris Richards returns to play for the USMNT following an ankle injury. He missed both of the team’s warm-up friendlies but now bolsters the U.S. defense. The game kicks off at 9 p.m. ET, 6 p.m. PT, and you can tune in via FOX or Fubo.

Paraguay sees Julio Enciso in the starting lineup. He recovered from an injury sustained during their preparation match against Nicaragua, offering a significant boost to their side.

Lineups

USMNT: Matt Freese; Alex Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson; Tyler Adams, Malik Tillman; Sergino Dest, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic; Folarin Balogun

Paraguay (4-4-2): Orlando Gill; Juan Cáceres, Omar Alderete, Gustavo Gómez (c), Júnior Alonso; Diego Gómez, Andrés Cubas, Damián Bobadilla, Miguel Almirón; Antonio Sanabria, Julio Enciso.

Atmosphere and Historical Context

A vibrant crowd is assembled at SoFi, with notable support for the U.S. team. American supporters are easily recognizable in horizontal red and white stripes, contrasting with the red and white vertical stripes of Paraguayan fans. This marks the USMNT’s first World Cup match against a South American opponent since their match against Brazil in 1994 in California, though at a different venue.

Back in 1994, the U.S. faced Switzerland in a match that ended in a 1-1 draw, featuring a significant goal by Eric Wynalda. The U.S. hopes for better luck against South American teams, reflecting on the recent 13-game record where these teams boast an 11-1-1 scoreline against Concacaf opponents.

SoFi Stadium Insights

SoFi Stadium provides a spectacular backdrop for this World Cup opener. Fans occupy suites and private clubs, reflecting the event’s exclusivity. Some fans, like Giovanni De Anda, managed to secure tickets after patiently watching prices drop.

USMNT Prospects

A victory in this match significantly boosts U.S. chances of advancing beyond the group stage. Winning one of the three group matches is typically enough to secure a spot in the Round of 32. Our projections suggest a 97 percent chance of advancement for the U.S. with a win tonight.

Sports analysts provide mixed predictions for the match. Tom Bogert forecasts a 2-0 victory for the U.S., citing vital contributions from midfield line-breaking passes and wingbacks. Meanwhile, Felipe Cardenas predicts a 2-2 draw, seeing both teams having opportunities to score and Paraguay leaving with a point.