United States beats Paraguay 4-1 as new hydration and throw-in rules debut at 2026 World Cup

The United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles on 13 June 2026 in one of the four opening matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup played under new hydration-break and throw-in timing rules. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie officiated the match. Spanish VAR Carlos del Cerro Grande reviewed a decision during the game.

Makkelie initially issued a yellow card to United States captain Tim Ream for fouling Paraguay forward Miguel Almiron. After the VAR review, Makkelie reversed the card to Ream and issued it to Almiron for simulation. The mistaken identity rule was applied during the match.

FIFA has not issued a clarification on the decision. Two host nations recorded victories and the third played to a draw before 13 June 2026. Three of the first four matches were played at temperatures just above 20°C.

Canada's match against Bosnia in Toronto was played at 26°C. Mandatory three-minute hydration breaks were introduced for the 2026 FIFA World Cup regardless of weather conditions. USA coach Mauricio Pochettino stated he does not like the mandatory hydration breaks when conditions are good.

Former England defender Phil Jagielka stated the hydration breaks effectively turn matches into quarters of 25 minutes each. A five-second rule for throw-ins is in effect at the 2026 World Cup. Argentine referee Facundo Tello awarded Canada a throw-in after Bosnia-Herzegovina left-back Sead Kolasinac exceeded the five-second limit.

The eight-second rule for goalkeepers releasing the ball has been in use since August 2025. BBC News published the article on 13 June 2026 at 17:03 BST and updated it one hour later.