The United States face Paraguay in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday 12 June 2026 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. As co-hosts, the USA begin their home World Cup in front of a Los Angeles crowd.
When and where
The match is played on 12 June 2026 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, one of 16 host cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico. It is the United States’ first game of the 2026 tournament, the first 48-team World Cup.
The co-hosts’ opener
The United States meet Paraguay in Group D. Playing at home, the USA will want a winning start to build momentum and quiet the pressure that comes with hosting. Paraguay, back among the South American qualifiers, present a well-organised first test.
Group D
Group D also contains Australia and Türkiye. The top two teams advance to the round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed sides across the 12 groups, so the opening match sets the tone for qualification.
How to watch
In the United States the match is shown on FOX and on Telemundo in Spanish, with streaming on Fox Sports and Peacock; in the United Kingdom on the BBC or ITV; and in Australia on Optus Sport. Kick-off times and listings are confirmed nearer the match.
Frequently asked questions
When do the USA play their first 2026 World Cup match? Friday 12 June 2026 against Paraguay.
Where is the match played? SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Which group are the USA in? Group D, with Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye.
For the full tournament schedule, groups and venues, see our World Cup 2026 guide.