LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The United States men’s national team returns to the world stage with its 2026 World Cup opener against Paraguay tonight.
The United States needs to continue its strong attack against one of the better defensive teams in the field.
Players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie need to show off their pace and finishing ability to get past the Paraguayan defenses and keep up the USMNT’s strong scoring presence felt over the last few matches.
Paraguay, known as La Albirroja, is likely without star playmaking midfielder Julio Enciso, who suffered a leg injury in a friendly last week. His loss leaves Miguel Almiron of Atlanta United to take on much of the attacking burden, and his recent form leaves much to be desired.
The USA’s only serious injury concern is the superb Crystal Palace center back, Chris Richards. He participated fully in team training this week, but may need more time to return to full form.
Paraguay is the weakest of the three Group D opponents, at least on paper, and the USA needs a positive result in a rowdy home Los Angeles crowd to push the Yanks to the top of the group.
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