The United States men's national team kick off their World Cup adventure facing a familiar foe in Paraguay on Friday. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has continued to say that his team will be judged on their performance at the World Cup,

The United States men's national team hits Inglewood for their 2026 World Cup opener — a Group D match against Paraguay on Friday.

The United States opens its home World Cup game against Paraguay on Friday at 9 p.m. Eastern at SoFi Stadium. U.S. defender Chris Richards is expected to be available.

USMNT star striker Folarin Balogun (L) and Paraguay standout midfielder Diego Gómez (R) Jamie Squire ; Aris Messinis / AFP / Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app.

USA vs Paraguay LIVE: Christian Pulisic inspires breakthrough for World Cup 2026 co-hosts - Donald Trump will not be in attendance as the USA play Paraguay in their opening match of the tournament

The United States will face Paraguay Friday evening to open play in the 2026 World Cup in the first of eight games at SoFi Stadium.