Photo: Dean Mouhtaropoulos / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) kicks off its 2026 FIFA World Cup journey today, facing Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The match, set to begin at 6 p.m. PT, marks the tenth meeting between the two teams, a rivalry that dates back to the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930. The U.S. has yet to claim a World Cup title.
Ahead of the match, a star-studded opening ceremony will feature performances by global superstars Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, Lisa, Rema, and Tyla. The ceremony, described as a celebration of cultural diversity and musical influence, will start 90 minutes before the kickoff, as reported by Front Row Soccer.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will feature a record 104 matches across 16 cities. The tournament began on Thursday (June 11) in Mexico City, with the U.S. hosting 78 matches, including eight at SoFi Stadium. According to AOL, the stadium has been temporarily renamed Los Angeles Stadium for the event.
Fans attending the match are encouraged to arrive early to participate in the opening festivities. As Mato notes, the venue offers premium hospitality spaces and an iconic Infinity Screen for an enhanced viewing experience.
The tournament will conclude with the final match at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday, July 19. Soccer enthusiasts can look forward to a month-long celebration of the sport, with numerous fan festivals and watch parties planned across the Los Angeles area.