All about the USA's 2026 World Cup squad

The United States national soccer team, commonly known as the USMNT, is about to take over the American sports industry. The 2026 World Cup makes its home debut Friday with an away opener against Paraguay (9 p.m., Fox).

But why wait for that day? World Cup coordinators, here's everything about USA...

The story of this American team in 25 words:

"They deserve to be called the 'Golden Generation'. As a team, they have defied expectations. This World Cup is their golden opportunity."

What is the 'Golden Generation'?

"Finally, some American boys born in the early 2000s came out with more talent than previous generations. This group, featuring the likes of Christian Pulisic, Weston McKenney and Tyler Adams, made it to the USMNT and moved on to popular European club teams."

When are the USMNT's group matches?

"Cup Group D includes Paraguay, Australia and Turkey. If the US finishes first or second, they are guaranteed a place in the next round (round of 32), third place is complicated."

Friday, June 12 - Paraguay - 9 p.m., Inglewood, Calif.

Friday, June 19 - Australia - 3pm, on ticket

Thursday, June 25 - Turkey - 10 p.m., Inglewood, Calif.

The US team will be televised on Fox (in English) and Telemundo (in Spanish) for all matches.

They are looking for a win in the round of 32. A win in the round of 16 is a win. A third straight win would send the USMNT to the semifinals, a record they have never seen before.

The USMNT's best finish was a sixth-place finish at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. (In 1930, it was among 13 teams in the semi-finals.)

Who is the USMNT's best player?

"Pulisic, a quick and skilled winger, is the face of the USMNT and arguably the best American soccer player of the last few years."

Hear who the USMNT's philanthropic players are.

"McKennie is a healing player. At Juventus and the national team, he runs everywhere."

Who is the captain?

"Tim Ream - the 38-year-old often referred to as 'Team Potter'."

Who is the leading goal scorer?

"Porijan Paulo Kun, will play in Monaco."

Who is the USMNT's starting lineup?

"Most starters:

*Goal: Matt Freeze

*Right back: Alex Freeman

*Centre Back: Chris Richards

*Center Back: Tim Ream

*Nature Retreat: Anthony Robinson

*Defensive center: Tyler Adams

*Center: Malik Tillman

*Offensive center: Weston McKenney

*Right Winger: Siledino Test

*Left Winger: Christian Pulisic

*Main Striker: Engineer Paulo Kun

Where did they come from?

"20 of the 26 players were born in the United States."

Who is the coach of the USMNT?

"Pochitino. He's the most accomplished coach for the USMNT."

Is victory possible for the USMNT?

"No one can succeed. In fact, the Americans have been around for a long time."

America is not at its best in soccer.

Interesting for the USMNT

"This should be a very talented, independent USMNT World Cup team"

Impact on the USMNT's game

"If they succeed, the TV audience could be many times that."

The USMNT's players and coaches all know the answers.