The United States face Paraguay in a significant World Cup opener as Mauricio Pochettino’s team looks to begin strongly in front of an expectant home crowd. Paraguay, led by Gustavo Alfaro, are expected to bring high intensity and a combative approach, making this a difficult early test for the hosts. The two sides last met in a friendly in November, when the United States won, but their only previous World Cup meeting dates back to 1930.
Team news suggests both coaches should have most of their key players available for the tournament’s opening match. Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams are all expected to start for the United States, while Tim Ream could become the oldest player ever to appear for the U.S. in a World Cup. Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards also made an unusual move by declaring himself available during the pre-match press conference.
Paraguay may be without Julio Enciso after he picked up an injury in a warm-up friendly against Nicaragua, and it remains unclear whether he will be fit enough to start. His absence would be a blow to a team that relies heavily on structure and discipline rather than attacking flair.
The United States have prepared for this moment by testing themselves against strong opposition over the past few months. Pochettino’s side have played friendlies against Uruguay, Belgium, Portugal, Senegal and Germany, giving them valuable experience against elite international teams. While the results were mixed, the schedule was designed to expose the squad to the level of competition they are likely to face in the World Cup.
Paraguay, meanwhile, earned their place by showing resilience in qualifying. Although they finished sixth in their South American group, they lost only four matches, fewer than Brazil and the same number as Argentina, Colombia and Uruguay. They finished just one point behind second place, and their defensive solidity proved crucial in securing qualification. The team may not have the most dynamic attack in the region, but their compact and organized system could make them a difficult opponent.
Much of the focus will be on Pulisic, who enjoyed an excellent first half of the Serie A season and finished the campaign with 12 goals and four assists in only 18 starts. He also impressed for the United States against Senegal recently, scoring and assisting in the first half before being substituted. Pulisic is the clear leader of Pochettino’s side and will be central to any serious tournament run. If the United States are to make a strong start, they will likely need another standout performance from their captain and attacking star.
With home support behind them, the United States are tipped to edge a close contest and begin the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Paraguay.
