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Pochettino Aims US World Cup Win, Opens vs Paraguay

6/12/2026

Summary

Pochettino Announces Opener

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino announced United States will open World Cup against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on June 12, 2026.
Mauricio Pochettino defined success as winning every match and the tournament, said all 26 players are fit—including Chris Richards back from a sprained ankle—and noted the squad no longer needs a motivational speech.
Mauricio Pochettino warned Paraguay is a difficult opponent, citing qualifying wins over Argentina and Brazil and praising Gustavo Alfaro.

Summary

Richards Out

Chris Richards (midfielder) tore two ankle ligaments on May 17, according to manager Oliver Glasner.
He missed the final league match and the UEFA Conference League final.
Mauricio Pochettino (manager) hid starter while Mark McKenzie (Toulouse) and Miles Robinson (Cincinnati) were backups for Richards.
Matt Freese (goalkeeper) logged 15 starts in 2025 while Matt Turner made three.
Julio Enciso (Paraguay playmaker) suffered an injury likely sidelining him for the U.S. opener.

History

Historical Context

In July 1988 FIFA awarded the 1994 World Cup to the United States, citing its ready-made stadiums and the recent success of the 1984 Olympic soccer tournament. The tournament ran June-July 1994 across nine venues, drew 3,587,538 spectators and spurred the creation of Major League Soccer in 1993. That legacy of infrastructure and commercial growth underpins Mauricio Pochettino’s preparation for the 2026 opening at SoFi Stadium.

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Pochettino Announces Opener

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino announced United States will open World Cup against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on June 12, 2026.
Mauricio Pochettino defined success as winning every match and the tournament, said all 26 players are fit—including Chris Richards back from a sprained ankle—and noted the squad no longer needs a motivational speech.
Mauricio Pochettino warned Paraguay is a difficult opponent, citing qualifying wins over Argentina and Brazil and praising Gustavo Alfaro.

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