USA vs Paraguay: 2026 World Cup Opening Match

USA open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, in the first round of Group D. Both sides start level on zero points, with USA listed first in the early group table and Paraguay second, and neither team bringing any recorded form or goal statistics into the tournament.

Historical Matchup

History suggests USA hold a clear psychological edge in this matchup. The record shows three recent meetings, all with USA at home and all ending in victory for the hosts. USA beat Paraguay 2-1 in a 2025 friendly at Subaru Park, following 1-0 wins in both a 2018 friendly at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park and a crucial Copa America 2016 group game at Lincoln Financial Field.

With no competitive 2026 World Cup data yet for either side, those head-to-head results are the strongest indicator available. USA have consistently found a way to edge tight contests, while keeping two clean sheets in those three games.

Verdict: Expect another closely fought encounter, but the balance of evidence points to USA extending their dominant run over Paraguay and making a winning start in Group D.