Does Malik Tillman play today? USA vs Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Jeronimo Santos
2 min read
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Attacking midfielder Malik Tillman is expected to be a starter for the United States team in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this Friday (12), against Paraguay, at SoFi Stadium, in Inglewood, Los Angeles region. At 24 years old, the Bayer Leverkusen player arrives as one of Mauricio Pochettino’s main offensive options.
Born on May 28, 2002, in Nuremberg, Germany, Tillman has dual citizenship and opted for the American team. A graduate of Bayern Munich’s youth teams, he stood out at PSV Eindhoven before moving to Bayer Leverkusen in July 2025 for around 35 million euros.
Tillman’s rise and current form
Tillman is going through a good phase at Leverkusen, with important goals in the 2025/26 Bundesliga and decisive performances for the national team. In 2025, he shone in the Gold Cup, scoring three goals and providing two assists. His height of 1.87m, vision of the game and finishing ability make him versatile in midfield, capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or more advanced.
With more than 30 appearances for the senior team, he represents the new American generation with high-level European experience.
Paraguayan challenge for midfield
Paraguay returns to the World Cup after 16 years and arrives with an organized team under Gustavo Alfaro, known for compact lines and fast counterattacks with names like Miguel Almirón. Tillman will play a central role in creating plays and linking midfield and attack alongside names like Christian Pulisic. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie whistles the match.
Motivation for home debut
Playing at the modern SoFi Stadium, with the support of the local fans, represents a special moment for Tillman, who dreams of shining in the tournament on American soil. The USA are looking for victory in the opening of Group D, which still has Australia and Türkiye, to start 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 Tillman’s creativity could be decisive.
Tillman as creative piece of the USMNT
Alongside Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, Antonee Robinson and Folarin Balogun, the midfielder symbolizes the evolution of American football. A good performance on his debut could consolidate his central role in Pochettino’s project and pave the way for an ambitious campaign.
The match is scheduled for 10pm (Brasília time). The stadium is expected to register a large audience for the start of the hosts’ campaign
