USMNT Kicks Off 2026 World Cup Campaign Against Paraguay in LA

The highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) is poised to make its debut on home soil. As one of the three host nations, alongside Canada and Mexico, the United States will play its first match of the tournament on Friday, June 12, against Paraguay. The Group D encounter is scheduled for a 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT) kickoff at the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, marking a significant moment for American soccer.

This opening fixture is crucial for the USMNT, who share Group D with formidable opponents Turkiye and Australia. Securing three points against a disciplined Paraguayan side, reportedly led by star winger Miguel Almiron, will be a high priority to build momentum in the 48-team tournament. The day's schedule also features fellow co-hosts Canada, who will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier in Group B play.

Fans across the United States will have multiple options to follow the action. For English-language viewers, the match will be broadcast on Fox. Spanish-language coverage will be available via Telemundo, with streaming options provided through Peacock. The performance of key USMNT players, such as Christian Pulisic, will be under immense scrutiny as the team aims to make a deep run in a World Cup hosted across North America.