Paraguay open World Cup against host nation USA

Paraguay return to the World Cup stage Friday

It's been 16 years. Paraguay open their 2026 World Cup campaign against the host nation USA on Friday in California – the first time La Albirroja have reached the tournament since South Africa 2010. Gustavo Alfaro's side go into Group A as underdogs, with the Americans carrying the weight of a home World Cup. The U.S. lineup is stacked: Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun lead the attack, Antonee Robinson and Tyler Adams anchor the spine. Nothing about Paraguay's XI has been confirmed yet, but Alfaro reportedly has a lineup in mind with a distinctly Argentine-influenced setup. (2)

Richards declares himself fit for the opener

USMNT defender Chris Richards says he has recovered from an ankle injury and is ready to face Paraguay on Friday. "I'm ready to go," Richards told CBS Sports. The Birmingham-born center-back had been a doubt, and his availability strengthens a back line Paraguay will need to find a way through – his return is not the news you wanted. (3)

One stat to carry with you

The first man to score a World Cup hat-trick, Bert Patenaude, did it for the USA against Paraguay – way back in 1930. (1) That is ancient history, but this is a match where Paraguay can write a new chapter.

Fan reactions

The Reddit discourse around this match has focused more on the U.S. side than Paraguay. One thread highlights Chris Richards' Birmingham roots and his personal journey back from injury to the World Cup stage, while a Group D preview thread has the Americans as the talking point. The lack of Paraguay-focused chatter says it all – your team is flying under the radar heading into Friday. See the Richards thread