USMNT’s Opening World Cup Opponent Loses Star Player to Shocking Injury

Paraguay's star midfielder Julio Enciso suffered what appeared to be a serious injury approximately 20 minutes into a World Cup warm-up friendly against Nicaragua on June 6, 2026. The injury casts doubt over his availability for Paraguay's opening World Cup match against the United States Men's National Team, scheduled one week later in Los Angeles. Enciso is considered Paraguay's most creative and arguably best player, making his potential absence a significant blow to their World Cup preparations.