This is the USMNT’s first World Cup match against a South American opponent since a 1994 round of 16 loss to Brazil, also played in California. Four years ago in Qatar, the U.S. opened with a 1-1 draw against Wales after Tim Weah scored and a Gareth Bale penalty canceled it out. Paraguay players took the field ahead of kickoff while the American Outlaws supporters group marched toward the stadium for the U.S. first home World Cup match in 32 years.
SoFi Stadium is set to host the resplendent opener, with red and white striped jerseys from both fanbases filling the stands. A win tonight could put the Americans in strong position to advance from Group D, though one group stage victory may still be enough if results break the right way.
Staff score predictions
- Tom Bogert: U.S. 2, Paraguay 0
- Felipe Cardenas: U.S. 2, Paraguay 2
- Paul Tenorio: U.S. 1, Paraguay 0
- Henry Bushnell: U.S. 2, Paraguay 1
