League: Bundesliga Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Breaking News

Pepi and Zendejas debut for USMNT in World Cup opener against Paraguay

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 3:09 AM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Pepi and Zendejas debut for USMNT in World Cup opener against Paraguay

Summary

Ricardo Pepi and Alejandro Zendejas, both from El Paso, are available as substitutes for the US Men's National Team in their World Cup opener against Paraguay. The match is taking place in Los Angeles. Pepi, a striker, and Zendejas, a winger, are making their World Cup debuts after being named to the 26-player roster. Both players have previous experience in professional soccer, with Pepi recently playing at PSV Eindhoven and Zendejas at Club America. The match allows for five substitutions throughout gameplay.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Pepi and Zendejas are on the bench for the USMNT's game against Paraguay.
•Both players are debuting in the FIFA World Cup.
•Pepi recently signed with PSV Eindhoven after a successful season in the Eredivisie.
•Zendejas has played at multiple clubs in Mexico and committed to the USMNT in 2023.
•The match allows for five substitutions throughout the game.

Latest Updates

3:09 AMYahoo Sports — El Paso native Ricardo Pepi debuts at 2026 World Cup vs Paraguay
12:05 AMYahoo Sports — El Paso’s Ricardo Pepi, Alejandro Zendejas suit up for World Cup debuts

What they're saying

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Two El Pasoans, Ricardo Pepi and Alejandro Zendejas, are on the bench available as subs for the USMNT’s World Cup opener against Paraguay.
— Yahoo Sports