US faces Paraguay in World Cup 2026 opener

The United States faces its first major test of the 2026 World Cup when it opens its Group D campaign against Paraguay on June 13 in Los Angeles. As a host nation, the US carries high expectations, aiming to advance deep into the tournament on home soil.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino has prepared the US squad, which includes seasoned European players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and Folarin Balogun. Recent warm-up matches have shown promising attacking play, evidenced by a 3-2 win over Senegal, though a 1-2 loss to Germany highlighted lingering defensive vulnerabilities. Pochettino, who took charge in September 2024, has emphasized his complete focus on the World Cup, dismissing speculation about European club offers.

Despite being favored, the US will not have an easy match. Paraguay returns to the World Cup finals for the first time since 2010, fueled by a strong performance in South American qualifiers where they secured notable victories against Argentina and Brazil under coach Gustavo Alfaro. Their confidence is further bolstered by recent experience against the US, having played a friendly in November 2025, which the US won 2-1. This encounter promises to be a closely contested opener for both nations in a competitive group that also includes Australia and Turkey.

“

My focus is entirely on the World Cup.