The moment has arrived.
FIFA 2026 World Cup play began Thursday across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the tournament’s first match taking place in Mexico.
Now the spotlight shifts to the United States. The U.S. will host its first game of the tournament Friday night in Los Angeles, where the men’s national team opens Group D play against Paraguay.
Earlier this week, Republicans and Democrats staged a competition of their own, albeit a much more familiar one. The annual Congressional Baseball Game took place Wednesday night at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., and as my colleague Nick Arama reported, Republicans defeated Democrats decisively, 11-2. Deputy Managing Editor Susie Moore also highlighted a standout defensive play in the outfield by Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO).
Back to soccer: as previously reported, the Department of Homeland Security has spent months preparing to help ensure that every FIFA venue remains safe and secure for fans, players, and staff through July 19, when the international tournament concludes.
