The FIFA World Cup is officially back in the United States for the first time in 32 years, with the U.S., Canada, and Mexico serving as co-hosts for the historic 2026 tournament. The United States men’s national soccer team will kick off its World Cup campaign on Friday, June 12, as fans across the country prepare for one of the biggest sporting events in modern history.
After reaching the Round of 16 during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the U.S. enters the 2026 tournament looking to make a deeper run on home soil. The squad features a blend of experienced World Cup veterans alongside several players making their first appearance on soccer’s biggest stage.
USMNT World Cup 2026 Group Stage Schedule
The United States has been placed in Group D and is guaranteed at least three matches during the group stage. Here’s the full schedule for the Americans:
USA vs. Paraguay
- Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
- Time: 9:00 p.m. ET
- Location: SoFi Stadium
- Opponent: Paraguay national football team
The opening match will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where the United States will face Paraguay in front of what is expected to be a packed crowd.
USA vs. Australia
- Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
- Time: 3:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Lumen Field
- Opponent: Australia national soccer team
The Americans then travel to Seattle for a key Group D matchup against Australia at Lumen Field.
USA vs. Turkey
- Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
- Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
- Location: SoFi Stadium
- Opponent: Turkey national football team
The U.S. will close out the group stage back at SoFi Stadium against Turkey in what could be a decisive match for advancement to the knockout rounds.
World Cup Returns to the United States
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks the first time the tournament has been hosted in the United States since the iconic 1994 World Cup. This year’s edition is also historic because it is the first World Cup to feature 48 national teams and three host countries.
Fans are expected to pack stadiums across North America as the tournament stretches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico throughout June and July.
USMNT Looking for Deep Tournament Run
The United States enters the tournament with rising expectations after showing flashes of promise in recent international competitions. Following a successful return to the World Cup stage in 2022, the team now has the opportunity to compete in front of home crowds during the biggest soccer tournament in the world.
With Group D featuring Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey, the U.S. will aim to secure one of the top spots in the standings to advance into the knockout stage.
Soccer fans across the country will now turn their attention toward June 12, when the Americans officially begin their quest for World Cup glory on home soil.