USA XI vs Paraguay - Predicted lineup & team news for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
The co-host nation will begin their competition campaign against Paraguay.
The USA and Paraguay will try to get off to a good start when they play in Los Angeles on Friday. They begin their Group D campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mauricio Pochettino’s team has alternated between a flexible back three and a four-man defence during several pre-tournament matches. However, skipper Tim Ream is expected to play in both systems.
The United States, along with its neighbours Mexico and Canada, will be one of three countries co-hosting this summer’s World Cup in an effort to maximise home advantage.
Following an excellent 3-2 victory against Senegal, their final warm-up match ended in defeat last weekend. They lost 2-1 to Germany despite Antonee Robinson’s spectacular equaliser.
They will play all of their group matches at home, in Los Angeles and Seattle. In their opening match, they will play Paraguay.
Also read: Canada XI vs Bosnia & Herzegovina – Predicted lineup & team news for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
USA team news vs Paraguay
With seasoned skipper Tim Ream at its core, the USA are anticipated to field a versatile back three for Friday’s opening match.
Chris Richards, a fellow centre back for Crystal Palace, has recently returned to training following an ankle injury. So Miles Robinson and Mark McKenzie are vying to fill in.
Christian Pulisic, the top player, should assist Folarin Balogun in attack. Meanwhile, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Malik Tillman will play crucial roles in midfield.
Pulisic may have struggled for AC Milan recently, but he had an outstanding performance against Germany. Meanwhile, AS Monaco striker Balogun scored 19 goals in all competitions last season (2025-26).
USA predicted lineup vs Paraguay
USA predicted lineup (3-4-2-1): Freese (GK); Freeman, M. Robinson, Ream; Dest, McKennie, Adams, A. Robinson; Pulisic, Tillman; Balogun
When is the USA game against Paraguay?
Saturday, June 13, 6:30 am IST.
Which group are in the USA?
They are in Group D.
Who else is in their Group?
Australia and Turkey.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.
After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.