Christian Pulišić Playing today? USA vs Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Jeronimo Santos
2 min read
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Striker Christian Pulisic, captain of the United States national team, should be the highlight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup debut, this Friday (12), against Paraguay, at the SoFi Stadium, in Inglewood, Los Angeles region. At 27 years old, the AC Milan player arrives as the main name of the host team and a symbol of the new era of American football.
Born on September 18, 1998, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Pulisic has been the face of the national team since he was 17 years old. After spells at Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea, he established himself at AC Milan, where he has accumulated important goals and assists in Serie A. Known as “Captain America”, he has already played in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and has played more than 85 games for the national team, with dozens of goals.
Pulisic’s leadership and form
Pulisic is experiencing great expectations for the World Cup at home. Recently, he overcame a goal drought for the national team and showed versatility in attack, playing as a winger or attacking midfielder. Mauricio Pochettino relies on his speed, dribbling and ability to decide games to connect the midfield with the attack, alongside names like Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman.
His elite European experience and leadership on the field make him primarily responsible for raising the USMNT’s level in the competition.
Paraguayan challenge for the captain
Paraguay returns to the World Cup after a 16-year absence and arrives with a solid defense under Gustavo Alfaro, as well as quick transitions with players like Miguel Almirón. Pulisic will play a central role in creating chances and overcoming Albirroja’s compact pressing. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie is in charge of the match.
Home debut with pressure and motivation
Playing at the modern SoFi Stadium, with the support of the local fans, represents the pinnacle of his career for Pulisic, who carries the weight of being the biggest name in American football. The USA are looking to win the opening of Group D, which still includes Australia and Türkiye, to start the tournament on home soil with confidence.
Recent history shows the Americans beating Paraguay 2-1 in a friendly in 2025. In the World Cup, the weight is greater, and the captain’s performance can define the course of the campaign.
Pulisic as USMNT icon
Alongside veterans like Tim Ream and Chris Richards in defense, and youngsters like Alexander Freeman and Malik Tillman, Pulisic symbolizes the bridge between generations. A good debut can consolidate his legacy as the greatest player in the history of the national team and propel the team towards historic results.
The match is scheduled for 10pm (Brasília time). The stadium is expected to register a large crowd for the start of the hosts’ journey.
