The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to kick off its 2026 World Cup campaign against Paraguay tonight at SoFi Stadium. This marks the beginning of the home World Cup tournament for the USMNT in Group D.
Mauricio Pochettino’s squad is optimistic about making a significant impact, having defeated Paraguay 2-1 in a friendly match last year. Chris Richards is ready to start after recovering from an ankle injury that kept him out of recent warm-up matches.
Kick-off: 9 p.m. ET, 6 p.m. PT
How to watch: FOX, Fubo (try for free)
Paraguay sees Julio Enciso return to start, providing a much-needed boost for Gustavo Alfaro’s team. Despite an injury in a recent friendly match against Nicaragua, Enciso has recovered and joins the starting XI.
Paraguay’s Line-up
Paraguay’s starting XI (4-4-2): Orlando Gill (GK); Juan Cáceres, Omar Alderete, Gustavo Gómez (c), Júnior Alonso; Diego Gómez, Andrés Cubas, Damián Bobadilla, Miguel Almirón; Antonio Sanabria, Julio Enciso.
Regarding the USMNT, no major surprises are expected. Freeman and Balogun have the potential to be standout players in this World Cup. The lineup features a tactical setup of a 4-2-3-1, transitioning to a 3-4-2-1 during possession.
USMNT Line-up
USMNT starting XI: Matt Freese; Alex Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson; Tyler Adams, Malik Tillman; Sergino Dest, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic; Folarin Balogun.
Chris Richards, a key defensive player, returns to strengthen the fluid back three system preferred by Pochettino. Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun are significant players in the attack, while Matt Freese takes the role of goalkeeper.
The atmosphere at SoFi Stadium is energetic, with loud cheers from fans as the USMNT arrives on the field. The crowd is expected to be overwhelmingly supportive of the U.S. team.
Historically, the U.S. last faced a South American opponent in the World Cup against Brazil in 1994. South American teams have shown strong performances against Concacaf teams in recent matches, with an 11-1-1 record over 13 games.
SoFi Stadium offers premium experiences with numerous suites and private clubs. The event is exclusive, with tickets gifted to corporations and clients.
Analyzing the USMNT’s prospects, winning one of the three group-stage games generally ensures advancement to the Round of 32. A victory tonight against Paraguay would significantly boost the team’s chances of advancing and favor winning the group.
Forecasted predictions vary, but the USMNT could potentially emerge as victors, with experts suggesting scores such as 2-0 or 2-2 in favor of the U.S.