USMNT to Face Paraguay in Opening Match of 2026 World Cup

2026 FIFA World Cup Kickoff

According to Главком: The United States men's national team will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Paraguay on Saturday, June 13, 2026. The match is scheduled to start at 4:00 AM Kyiv time (local time in the host cities will vary). This edition of the World Cup is historic as it will be jointly hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the tournament running from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

In Ukraine, the game will be broadcast by the media service Megogo. Viewers will need a paid 'Sport' subscription or any plan from the 'Megopack' lineup to watch. The 2026 World Cup will feature 12 groups, each consisting of four teams.

Group Stage Breakdown

• Group A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic.
• Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland.
• Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland.
• Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey.
• Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador.
• Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia.
• Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand.
• Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay.
• Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway.
• Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan.
• Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia.
• Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama.

The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, will advance to the Round of 16. This opening clash between the USA and Paraguay is set to be a pivotal moment for both squads and their supporters.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is especially notable as it marks the first time in history that the tournament will be hosted across three different countries simultaneously.

The USA vs. Paraguay opener also carries strategic weight, as both teams will be eager to secure crucial points early in the group stage to boost their chances of advancing, adding extra tension and excitement to the fixture.

As the excitement builds for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, fans are also looking forward to another thrilling encounter, where Mexico will take on South Africa on June 11. This game will set the stage for a tournament filled with intense competition and memorable moments, as teams vie for the prestigious title across North America.