The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held on Friday, placed the United States in Group D alongside Australia, Paraguay, and the winner of the UEFA playoff featuring Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, and Kosovo.
The USMNT will play the entire group stage on the West Coast, splitting matches between Los Angeles and Seattle.
Australia: a familiar opponent
Shaquille O’Neal drew Australia from Pot 2. The matchup comes with recent history: in October 2025, the United States defeated the Socceroos 2–1, with both goals scored by Haji Wright.
Australia returns sixth straight World Cupon a downturn after three consecutive friendly losses and no knockout-stage appearance since 2006.
Paraguay: back on the global stage
From Pot 3, MLB star Aaron Judge selected Paraguay, which returns to the World Cup for the first time in 16 years. Although experienced, the squad is no longer in its athletic prime and was also beaten by the United States in a recent friendly — another positive data point for Pochettino’s side.
UEFA playoff: Turkey leads a volatile field
Wayne Gretzky completed the group by drawing the UEFA playoff path involving Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, and Kosovo.
Turkey is considered the favorite, having defeated the United States before the Gold Cup and posting four wins in six European qualifiers. Any of the four, however, would bring a distinct challenge to the final group-stage match.
USMNT Group Stage Schedule
Matchday 1:
United States vs. Paraguay — June 12, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
Matchday 2:
United States vs. Australia — June 19, Lumen Field, Seattle
Matchday 3:
United States vs. UEFA Playoff Winner — June 25, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
The United States remains entirely in California and Washington for the opening phase.
Next steps: final preparation window
With the group set, the USMNT shifts into full preparation mode.
March International Window — Atlanta
- vs. Belgium — March 28
- vs. Portugal — March 31Both matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
June Friendly — Chicago
- vs. Germany — June 6 at Soldier Field, days before the tournament kicks off.
