United States Opens World Cup against Paraguay with Third Opening Ceremony

Team USA takes center stage Friday evening at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles for the 2026 World Cup’s third opening ceremony, featuring pop star Katy Perry, followed by the USMNT's Group D opener against Paraguay. This marks the first time the United States has hosted the World Cup since 1994.

The US and Paraguay have met three times in competitive matches, with the US holding a 2-1 record. Their most recent encounter was in 2021 World Cup qualifying, a 3-0 US victory in Columbus.

Paraguay, ranked 69th in the world, aims to pull off an upset on American soil. The US enters the tournament with momentum, having won its last four friendlies. The squad blends experienced European-based players with emerging MLS stars.

Coach Gregg Berhalter leads a team seeking to prove American soccer belongs on the global stage. Over 70,000 fans are expected at SoFi Stadium, creating a charged atmosphere that will test whether US soccer can capture the nation's imagination.

The match is preceded by a 15-minute opening ceremony featuring Katy Perry and performances celebrating the host nation's diversity and soccer culture.