Makkelie to referee Paraguay's World Cup opener against USA

Dutch referee Danny Makkelie has been appointed to officiate Paraguay's opening World Cup 2026 match against the United States on June 12. It's the first fixture of the tournament for both sides, with Paraguay entering as underdogs against the host nation. The match is set for Friday, and Makkelie – one of UEFA's most experienced officials – taking charge signals the weight this Group stage opener carries.