ATLANTA (December 5, 2025) – In a big reveal today, the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) learned it will compete in Group D at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Joining them are Paraguay, Australia, and the UEFA Playoff winner, which could be one of several teams: Kosovo, Romania, Slovakia, or Türkiye.
This marks the USMNT’s 12th World Cup and their second time as a host. They kick off the tournament against Paraguay on June 12 in Los Angeles. Next, they face Australia on June 19 in Seattle, then return to LA on June 25 for their final group match against the UEFA playoff winner. FIFA will confirm more details about the tournament schedule soon.
Fans can catch all the action live on FOX Sports and Telemundo.
2026 World Cup Groups:
- Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, UEFA Playoff D (Denmark, North Macedonia, Czechia, Republic of Ireland)
- Group B: Canada, UEFA Playoff A (Wales, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Italy, Northern Ireland), Qatar, Switzerland
- Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
- Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, UEFA Playoff C
- Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
- Group F: Netherlands, Japan, UEFA Playoff B, Tunisia
- Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
- Group H: Spain, Cabo Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
- Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Playoff 2, Norway
- Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
- Group K: Portugal, FIFA Playoff 1, Uzbekistan, Colombia
- Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
USA’s Matches in Group D:
- Match 1: USA vs. Paraguay (June 12 in Los Angeles)
- Match 2: Australia vs. USA (June 19 in Seattle)
- Match 3: USA vs. Winner of UEFA Playoff C (June 25 in Los Angeles)
If the USMNT tops Group D, they’ll face a third-place team from Groups B, F, I, or J in the Round of 32. Finishing second would set them up against the second-placed team from Group G. If they place third but are among the top eight third-place teams, they could meet the winner from either Group E, I, or K.
The team is building depth under coach Mauricio Pochettino, who had 56 players earning caps in 2025. With a rotation strategy, they aim for versatility and peak performance through the long tournament. This approach is crucial for success at home in 2026.
The USMNT enters the World Cup with momentum, going unbeaten in its last five matches, including four wins against teams already qualified for 2026.
USMNT History Against Group D Teams:
- Paraguay: 5 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses
- Australia: 2 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss
- Kosovo: No matches played
- Romania: 1 win, 2 draws, 1 loss
- Slovakia: No matches played
- Türkiye: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss
Key Insights on Australia:
- Current FIFA Rank: 26
- Championship Honors: AFC Asian Cup (2015)
- USMNT Record Against Australia: 2-1-1
- Best World Cup Finish: Round of 16 (2022)
- Head Coach: Tony Popovic
Australia has been a strong competitor, appearing in six straight World Cups since 2006. Interestingly, their last match against the U.S. was a friendly where they lost 2-1.
Profile on Paraguay:
- Current FIFA Rank: 39
- Best World Cup Finish: Quarterfinals (2010)
- Head Coach: Gustavo Alfaro
Paraguay is back at the World Cup after a 16-year hiatus, which adds excitement to the match against the U.S.
As 2026 approaches, both teams are eager to make their mark. Fans are buzzing on social media, discussing potential matchups and player performances, showing heavy support for their national teams.
This World Cup promises thrilling moments and high-stakes matches. Stay tuned as the excitement builds!
