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U.S. Starts World Cup vs Paraguay, $264M Revenue

6/12/2026

Summary

USA Opens Cup

The United States opens the 2026 World Cup at SoFi Stadium versus Paraguay on June 12, 2026, 9 p.m. ET, with coach Mauricio Pochettino leading the roster.
The squad includes 17 Europe-based and eight MLS players, with Patrick Agyemang (Achilles rupture) and Cameron Carter-Vickers (Achilles tear) out, leaving Richards’ ankle doubtful.
U.S. Soccer reported $264 M revenue and $70 M fundraising last year, underscoring stakes as the team seeks its first quarter-final since 2002.

Summary

Peña Travels

U.S. President Donald Trump's attendance at the U.S.–Paraguay opener remains unconfirmed.
President Santiago Peña will travel to Los Angeles to watch Paraguay face the United States.
The opening ceremony will feature musical performances by LISA, Anitta and Katy Perry before kickoff.
AccuWeather forecasts a high of 77 °F with intermittent clouds at SoFi Stadium.
Ticket-holding fans can stream the match for free on Tubi, adding a cost-free viewing option.

History

Historical Context

2026’s World Cup opener in Los Angeles revisits the United States’ 1994 tournament, which ran June 17-July 17 and drew a record 3,587,538 spectators across nine venues. That event, won by Brazil after a penalty-shootout against Italy at the Rose Bowl, proved the most financially successful World Cup, establishing a lasting growth trend for American soccer.

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USA Opens Cup

The United States opens the 2026 World Cup at SoFi Stadium versus Paraguay on June 12, 2026, 9 p.m. ET, with coach Mauricio Pochettino leading the roster.
The squad includes 17 Europe-based and eight MLS players, with Patrick Agyemang (Achilles rupture) and Cameron Carter-Vickers (Achilles tear) out, leaving Richards’ ankle doubtful.
U.S. Soccer reported $264 M revenue and $70 M fundraising last year, underscoring stakes as the team seeks its first quarter-final since 2002.

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