USA vs Paraguay – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·12 juin 2026

USA vs Paraguay – Predicted lineup and team news

USA open their World Cup campaign at SoFi Stadium against Paraguay, looking to secure immediate control of Group D.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino expects an intense, high-pressing performance from his players in Los Angeles. The Americans want to make the most of their home advantage in front of 70,000 fans. History favours the co-hosts, who defeated Paraguay 3-0 in their only previous tournament meeting.

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The Stars and Stripes have successfully reached the knockout rounds in their last three finals appearances. Pochettino has focused heavily on physical readiness during their training camp in California.

USA team news

Pochettino faces a late defensive selection dilemma before Saturday’s highly anticipated kickoff. Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards has only just resumed training following an ankle injury.

In his absence, Miles Robinson and Mark McKenzie are competing to start in defence. Veteran captain Tim Ream will anchor a flexible back three to provide essential leadership.

Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie are set to dominate the central midfield battle. Malik Tillman will operate in an advanced role to link the midfield and attack. Christian Pulisic will support forward Folarin Balogun, who netted 19 goals last season.

The AC Milan winger looked sharp against Germany despite experiencing a difficult domestic campaign in Italy. Matt Freese expects to start between the posts behind the reshuffled backline.

USA predicted lineup

USA predicted XI: Freese; Freeman, M. Robinson, Ream; Dest, McKennie, Adams, A. Robinson; Pulisic, Tillman; Balogun.

When will the match kick off?

The FIFA World Cup group match at SoFi Stadium kicks off at 2:00 BST on Saturday, 13 June 2026.

How to watch USA vs Paraguay?

The opening Group D fixture will be broadcast live across the United Kingdom on BBC One. Football fans can also stream the action online via the BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website.