World Cup 2026: Canada & US Begin Home Campaigns
The 2026 FIFA World Cup enters its second day with a historic doubleheader as Canada and the United States play their opening matches in front of home fans. After Mexico’s eventful 2-0 win over South Africa on Thursday—a match that saw a record three red cards—attention shifts north to Toronto and Los Angeles.
- Canada vs Bosnia-Herzegovina – BMO Field, Toronto; 3pm local (19:00 GMT)
- USA vs Paraguay – SoFi Stadium, Inglewood; 6pm local (01:00 GMT June 13)
Canada’s Long-Awaited Return
Canada are still searching for their first World Cup victory after losing all three group matches in 1986 and 2022. But the team has climbed from outside FIFA’s top 100 in 2017 to 30th in the world, fueled by a golden generation led by Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David. Friday’s match against Bosnia-Herzegovina—a first-ever meeting between the sides—offers a golden opportunity to end that drought.
The Opta supercomputer gives Canada a 58.3% win probability in 10,000 simulations, with Bosnia winning 20% and a draw 21.7%. The hosts will rely on a raucous home crowd at BMO Field to push them over the line.
USA vs Paraguay: A Rare Rematch
The United States and Paraguay have met only twice in the World Cup—the Americans won 3-0 in 1930, and the sides split friendlies and Copa America encounters since. Opta predicts a tight contest: USA win 39.8%, Paraguay 33.6%, draw 26.6%. Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie will lead the US attack against a Paraguay side known for defensive discipline.
Key Player Stats
| Player | Team | World Cup Goals | 2026 Qualifying Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alphonso Davies | Canada | 0 | 3 |
| Jonathan David | Canada | 0 | 5 |
| Christian Pulisic | USA | 1 | 4 |
| Weston McKennie | USA | 0 | 2 |
What’s Next: Group Stage Outlook
Both Canada and the US face crucial group-stage battles ahead. Canada will need points from Bosnia to set up a decisive clash against a strong European side. The US, meanwhile, must navigate a tricky group that includes Paraguay and other contenders. A win on Friday would put either team in pole position for knockout qualification.
Where to Watch
USA: English coverage on FOX and FS1; streaming on FOX Sports app and Fubo. Spanish on Telemundo and Peacock.
Canada: English on TSN and CTV; French on RDS.
International viewers can check local listings.
Other World Cup Storylines
Red Card Record
Thursday’s opener saw three red cards—the most ever in a World Cup opening match. South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were sent off, followed by Mexico’s Cesar Montes in stoppage time. Only Portugal vs Netherlands (2006) has more with four.
Japan Captain Out
Wataru Endo withdrew from Japan’s squad with a foot injury and announced his international retirement. The Liverpool midfielder said he had ‘no regrets’ after struggling to recover from surgery.
Empty Seats Controversy
Despite FIFA’s dynamic pricing defense, several sections remained empty during Mexico’s match, reigniting debate over ticket affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Canada and the US playing on the same day?
The 2026 World Cup schedule was designed to maximize home-market exposure. With three co-hosts, FIFA staggered opening matches to give each nation a standalone spotlight.
What are Canada’s chances of winning their first World Cup match?
Opta gives Canada a 58.3% win probability against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Their recent rise in FIFA rankings and home advantage make them clear favorites.
How can I watch USA vs Paraguay live?
In the US, the match airs on FOX and FS1, with streaming on FOX Sports app and Fubo. Spanish coverage is on Telemundo and Peacock.
What is the 2026 World Cup format?
The tournament features 48 teams in 16 groups of three. The top two from each group advance to a 32-team knockout stage. A total of 104 matches will be played across 16 cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
