The final host nation get their campaign underway
The USA take on Paraguay in Los Angeles in what could prove to be one of the most important matches of Group D.
With Australia and Turkey also in the group, both sides know that a positive result in their opening fixture could put them firmly on course for a place in the knockout stages.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side will have the backing of a huge home crowd and arrive as slight favourites. The Americans have enjoyed recent success against Paraguay, winning each of the last three meetings between the nations, including a 2-1 victory in a friendly last November.
History is also on the USA’s side. They are unbeaten in their last three World Cup opening matches, while Paraguay have won just one of their previous eight World Cup openers.
However, Paraguay should not be underestimated. Gustavo Alfaro has built a disciplined side that is notoriously difficult to break down and they return to the World Cup for the first time since reaching the quarter-finals in 2010.
The match is expected to be a tense affair, with plenty of pressure on the hosts to deliver in front of their own supporters.
USA to win
Home advantage could prove decisive here. The Americans have won the last three meetings between the teams and have generally performed well in opening World Cup fixtures.
Paraguay’s defensive organisation should keep things competitive, but the quality of players such as Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun gives the USA the edge.
BetWarriors have USA priced at an extremely tasty 11/10, which represents great value given their home advantage.
USA Win and Under 2.5 goals
This looks unlikely to be a goal-fest if recent history is anything to go by.
Paraguay’s recent success has been built on defensive solidity and several pundits are predicting a tight contest. The South Americans have traditionally been difficult opponents at World Cups and are expected to sit deep and frustrate the hosts.
If you want to be a bit more bold, you can back USA to win and under 2.5 goals at 14/5 with BetWarriors.
Prediction: USA 1-0 Paraguay
The occasion, the crowd and the extra quality in attacking areas should help the USA start their World Cup campaign with three points.
Paraguay are capable of making life difficult, but the hosts look well placed to grind out a narrow victory and take an early step towards the knockout rounds.
