Sergiño Dest Playing Today? USA vs Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Jeronimo Santos
2 min read
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Right-back Sergiño Dest should 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 25 years old, the player is experiencing a moment of redemption after recovering from injury and arrives as one of the main offensive weapons of the host team.
Born on November 3, 2000, in Almere, Netherlands, Dest has a high-level career in Europe. Trained at Ajax, he spent time at Barcelona and Milan before establishing himself at PSV Eindhoven, where he plays as a versatile winger with a strong attacking presence.
Return and experience of Dest
Dest played the entire 2022 World Cup in Qatar, starting all four USMNT games. After a hamstring injury that sidelined him for months, he returned to the field and gained confidence with consistent performances for PSV, contributing goals and assists during the season. Mauricio Pochettino counts on his speed and ability to create imbalances on the right side.
With 39 appearances for the senior team and three goals, including recent performances in 2026, the full-back symbolizes the connection between the 2022 generation and the current team, bringing elite European experience.
Paraguayan challenge on the side
Paraguay returns to the World Cup after a 16-year absence and has quick transitions and skilled players like Miguel Almirón, which will require defensive attention from Dest. At the same time, Albirroja’s solidity under Gustavo Alfaro will be tested by the American’s ability to attack. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie is in charge of the duel.
Motivation for home debut
Playing at the modern SoFi Stadium, with the support of the local fans, represents a special moment for Dest, who is playing in his second World Cup on American soil. The USA are looking for victory in the opening of Group D, which also includes Australia and Türkiye, to start the campaign 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 Dest’s versatility can be decisive in both marking and creating plays.
Dest as engine of the American attack
Alongside names like Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, Alexander Freeman and goalkeeper Matthew Freese, Dest reinforces the balance between defense and attack. A good performance on his debut could consolidate his central role in Pochettino’s project for the home tournament.
The match is scheduled for 10pm (Brasília time). The stadium is expected to register a large crowd for the start of the hosts’ journey.
