World Cup 2026: USMNT draws its most-watched telecast ever during win over Paraguay, averaging more than 18 million viewers
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The US men's national soccer team delivered a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their 2026 World Cup group opener at SoFi Stadium, marking their highest goal tally in a World Cup match.
- The match drew an average of 18,037,000 viewers across Fox, Fox One, and Tubi, making it the most-watched men's World Cup telecast in English-language U.S. history.
- Viewership peaked at 21,526,000 between 10:45-11 p.m. ET, representing a 132% increase from the USMNT's 2022 World Cup opener against Wales.
- The updated ratings incorporate Nielsen's new methodology, which includes smart TV and set-top box data, as well as out-of-home viewing, contributing to higher reported numbers.
- Despite higher reported viewership for the USMNT's 2014 World Cup draw with Portugal on ESPN, differences in measurement methods mean both broadcasters may claim viewership records.
