World Cup Match Day 2 Preview: USA Faces Paraguay, Canada Battles Bosnia and Herzegovina

Canada Opens Against Bosnia and Herzegovina

On Friday, June 12, 2026, Canada starts its World Cup journey at Toronto Stadium against Bosnia and Herzegovina. This match kicks off at 3 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on FOX, with streaming available for free on FOX One for three days.

Canada’s World Cup history has been tough—six games, six losses, including tournaments in 1986 and 2022. After falling short in Qatar, the team aims to change that narrative this year.

The squad has improved under head coach Jesse Marsch, who led them to the semifinals of the 2024 Copa América. Since then, Canada's form has surged, losing only twice in 23 matches. Their defense has been particularly strong, conceding more than one goal just twice since the Copa América. As a result, Canada now ranks 30th globally.

Two key players are doubtful: left back Alphonso Davies is struggling with a hamstring injury, while central defender Moise Bombito's status remains uncertain.

Bosnia and Herzegovina enters as an underdog ranked 64th but with confidence after an eight-game unbeaten streak. Their last loss came in September 2025 during World Cup qualifying. The team impressed by defeating Wales and Italy in shootouts during the playoffs.

Coach Sergej Barbarez leads a mix of youth and experience. Esmir Bajraktarevic, dubbed the "Milwaukee Messi," plays for PSV Eindhoven and was instrumental in the playoff victories. Veteran captain Edin Džeko, aged 40, remains vital, scoring five goals last year, including a crucial equalizer against Wales.

Player to Watch: Jonathan David (Canada)

David moved from Lille to Juventus but had a challenging first season with just six Serie A goals. His performance may determine Canada’s chances. If he regains his Lille form, Canada could pose a serious threat. Otherwise, their attack might fall short.

USA Faces Paraguay in Los Angeles

Later on June 12, at 9 p.m. ET, United States takes the field in Los Angeles Stadium against Paraguay. The match will air on FOX and stream free on Tubi.

The US team under Mauricio Pochettino has been unpredictable. Early 2025 saw poor results, but the fall brought improvement highlighted by a 2-1 win over Paraguay and a 5-1 victory against Uruguay. March’s friendlies showed mixed results with a loss to Belgium and Portugal but a win over Senegal.

Christian Pulisic’s recent goal against Senegal ended his scoring drought, which is a positive sign for US offense. Another boost could come if defender Chris Richards recovers fully from an ankle injury.

Paraguay qualified by finishing sixth in South America’s tough qualifiers, just a point behind several other top teams. Under Gustavo Alfaro, they secured notable wins over Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, proving they can challenge elite squads.

This marks Paraguay’s ninth World Cup appearance; their last was in 2010 when they reached the quarterfinals. Veterans Miguel Almirón and Gustavo Gomez lead the team. Gomez, 33, captains Paraguay and boasts multiple league titles in Brazil, while young Diego Gomez shines in the Premier League with Brighton.

Player to Watch: Christian Pulisic (United States)

The AC Milan winger is critical for the US. His early game impact will set the tone. If he shows energy and creates opportunities, the US looks strong. If not, Paraguay could seize the advantage.