The United States opens the 2026 World Cup against Paraguay following the deportation of half the Paraguayan national team by ICE agents, according to reports from Reflex.cz. The U.S. team, led by manager Mauricio Pochettino, enters the tournament as hosts, while Canada begins its campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina, as reported by Sport.cz and ČT sport.
Why half the Paraguay squad is missing
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents deported 50% of the Paraguay squad prior to their opening match against the United States, according to Reflex.cz. Local commentators have characterized the timing and nature of these deportations as a “game tactic,” according to the same report.
Pochettino’s goals for the U.S. generation
The U.S. national team is currently viewed as having a rare opportunity to succeed on home soil. Bradley described the home World Cup as a “life chance” for the squad, according to Eurofotbal.
Pochettino leads an exceptional generation.
— Bradley, via Eurofotbal
Political attendance for the opening match
President Trump will not be present to support the U.S. national team during their opening fixture against Paraguay, according to iDNES.cz.
Opening schedule for North American hosts
The tournament launch features both primary North American hosts in their initial matchups:
- USA vs. Paraguay
- Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
