Defender Chris Richards earned a spot in the United States’ starting eleven for the World Cup opener against Paraguay after healing from a May 17 ankle tear suffered with Crystal Palace. Richards, who missed the two recent friendlies, said his ankle feels good, with only minor swelling that tape can manage. His return bolsters a back line that has been shorthanded all summer.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino also settled the goalkeeper debate, naming New York City FC’s Matt Freese over veteran Matt Turner, who started every match in the 2022 tournament. The lineup retains six players from the Qatar World Cup, including captain Tim Ream, who at 38 years, 250 days becomes the oldest USMNT World Cup participant. The selections signal a blend of experience and fresh legs.

Paraguay will field striker Julio Enciso, back from a stretchered exit in a 4-0 win over Nicaragua, alongside Antonio Sanabria and Miguel Almirón. The United States faces Australia in Seattle before the final group game against Türkiye in San Francisco. A win or still draw against Paraguay keeps the US on track to advance from Group C.