World Cup 2026 Kicks Off: USA vs. Paraguay, Canada's Historic Debut

The 2026 World Cup commences with a high-stakes opening match as host nation the United States takes on Paraguay at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The game's anticipation is heightened by the uncertainty surrounding the starting lineup for Paraguay's star player, Julio 'la Joya' Enciso.

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Paraguay measures its strength in the 2026 World Cup against one of the three hosts, the United States, in a high-tension debut for which the Albirroja arrives conditioned by the doubt in the starting lineup of star Julio 'la Joya' Enciso.

Meanwhile, Canada begins its World Cup journey against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto, marking a historic moment as the first men's World Cup match played on Canadian soil. The opening ceremony in Toronto promises a spectacle with performances by Canadian music stars like Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé. Los Angeles will also host a star-studded event featuring Katy Perry, Future, and Anitta, among others, to welcome the tournament.

The tournament's global reach is highlighted by various national preparations. Cabo Verde, a nation with no players from its domestic league, will debut against Spain, with its squad dispersed across leagues in Portugal, Turkey, the US, and beyond. Portugal is set for its final training session before departing for the US, with coach Roberto Martínez expected to address the media. David Beckham will also be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, coinciding with the World Cup's start.

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Canada begins the 2026 World Cup against Bosnia and Herzegovina with a mixture of illusion, pressure, and historical ambition in a match that opens Group B.

Other storylines emerge from nations like Haiti, whose return to the World Cup after 52 years has ignited passion in Miami's Little Haiti neighborhood. Mexico, having already played its opening match, is now focusing on the broader social and economic impacts of hosting the tournament, shifting attention from the field to the streets.

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There are countries that export footballers, but Cabo Verde exported an entire national team. When it debuts against Spain this Monday in the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, none of its players will come from the national league. All play abroad.