League: Champions League Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Coaching

Pulisic leads US in World Cup opener against Paraguay on Friday

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 12:13 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Pulisic leads US in World Cup opener against Paraguay on Friday

Summary

Christian Pulisic states that the United States is prepared for a challenging opening match against Paraguay in the World Cup. The game is scheduled for Friday at 6:00 pm local time in Los Angeles, preceded by an opening ceremony. Pulisic emphasizes the team’s capability to compete and the importance of a physical game against the South American side. The US squad features several key players, while Paraguay is led by experienced figures like Miguel Almiron and Gustavo Gomez. Both teams aim to make a strong impression in their group stage matches.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Match against Paraguay kicks off Friday at 6:00 pm local time.
•Pulisic aims to show the team's competitive spirit.
•US coach Mauricio Pochettino prepares team for South American challenge.
•Paraguay boasts a rich World Cup history despite current ranking.
•Opening ceremony precedes the first US game in this World Cup.

Latest Updates

12:13 AMYahoo Sports — Christian Pulisic embraces pressure of leading US against Paraguay in World Cup opener
9:57 PMYahoo Sports — Christian Pulisic is ready to shoulder the burden of US hopes in home World Cup opener vs Paraguay
8:04 PMYahoo Sports — Pulisic 'ready to battle' Paraguay in US World Cup opener

What they're saying

"
Christian Pulisic is the most accomplished and most famous player on his national team at the exact time when his nation is hosting a World Cup. Pulisic's U.S. teammates recognize the extraordinary burden he is carrying while the Americans prepare for their World Cup opener Friday night against Paraguay. From the field to the back row of the stands, everyone is looking to Pulisic for leadership and goals, hoping his full decade of international success with club and country will propel a middling soccer nation to new heights on home soil.
— Yahoo Sportsby GREG BEACHAM

"
United States star Christian Pulisic said the World Cup co-hosts are "ready to battle" on soccer's biggest stage as they prepare for a potentially bruising opener against Paraguay on Friday."We know we have to be ready to battle.
— Yahoo Sports