USMNT Lineup vs. Paraguay: Matt Freese Starts In Goal; Chris Richards Returns

Matt Freese of New York City FC will start in goal for the USMNT in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Paraguay on June 12, 2026, at Los Angeles Stadium, beating out Matt Turner who had started all four matches at the 2022 World Cup. Defender Chris Richards, who suffered an ankle injury playing for Crystal Palace last month and only completed his first full training session on Monday, has recovered in time to start alongside captain Tim Ream. The lineup was confirmed by manager Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the USA's home tournament debut.