How to Watch USWNT vs Paraguay Women's Friendly: Full TV Guide, Commentators and Pundits for UK Fans

Match date: 24 January 2026

How to Watch USWNT vs Paraguay Women's Friendly: Full TV Guide, Commentators and Pundits for UK Fans

Football enthusiasts across the UK tuning into the women's international scene will want to catch the exciting United States vs Paraguay friendly on January 24, 2026, kicking off at 22:30 UK time. While British channels like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports are not broadcasting this match live, US broadcasters TNT, truTV and HBO Max are covering it extensively with a top-tier team led by presenter Sara Walsh, commentator Luke Wileman, co-commentator Julie Foudy, pundit Shannon Boxx and reporter Melissa Ortiz. This fixture marks the US Women's National Team (USWNT)'s opening match of 2026 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, offering UK viewers a chance to see Emma Hayes' side in action ahead of crucial World Cup qualifying[1][2][4].

The game, set for 22:30 UK time (which is 14:30 local time in California), promises high-energy action as the USWNT, on a hot streak with 11 goals in their last three outings against Italy and others, host Paraguay in this preparation bout[1]. For British fans, streaming options via VPN to access US services like HBO Max (subscription required, geo-restricted) or checking TNT and truTV through compatible platforms will be key, as no free-to-air UK coverage is confirmed. The venue, Dignity Health Sports Park, has hosted more USWNT games than any other, adding historical significance, and pre-match festivities include honouring LA native Christen Press on her retirement[4].

Sara Walsh, the presenter steering the coverage across all three channels, brings a wealth of experience from her time at ESPN, Fox Sports and SEC Network, where she has covered major NFL, college football and women's sports events. Her poised delivery and deep sports knowledge make her a favourite for US soccer broadcasts, ensuring smooth transitions between studio analysis and pitch-side updates[1]. Joining her in the commentary booth is main commentator Luke Wileman, a Canadian broadcaster renowned for his passionate calls on CBS Sports, ESPN and beIN Sports, particularly for MLS, Canadian national teams and international women's football. Wileman's career highlights include covering multiple World Cups and Olympics, with his energetic style captivating audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.

Providing expert co-commentary is Julie Foudy, a Hall of Famer and two-time FIFA Women's World Cup winner with the USWNT in 1991 and 1999. After a stellar playing career that saw her captain the team and earn over 270 caps, Foudy transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting with ESPN, where she analyses major tournaments and contributes to shows like SportsCenter. Her insights into USWNT tactics and player development under Emma Hayes will be invaluable, drawing from her experience as a midfielder who embodied the team's aggressive, high-possession style[2][3].

Rounding out the studio expertise is pundit Shannon Boxx, another USWNT legend with 195 caps, four Olympic golds and a 2007 World Cup bronze. Boxx's midfield prowess and leadership shone in her club career across WUSA, WPS and Seattle Reign, before she became a respected analyst for Fox Sports and ESPN. Her post-retirement work includes advocating for player welfare and equality in women's football, offering UK viewers nuanced takes on Hayes' squad selection, which features NWSL stars like Trinity Rodman and emerging talents[2]. Reporter Melissa Ortiz will deliver live updates from Carson, her bilingual skills and experience covering USMNT and USWNT for Telemundo and NBC making her perfect for on-site colour.

The USWNT enters this friendly in fine form, having dismantled Italy 2-0 and 3-0, and New Zealand 6-0 in late 2025, showcasing their fast-paced, high-intensity approach under Emma Hayes, who recently spoke in her pre-match press conference about building player fitness gradually with up to 60-minute rotations and emphasising compact defending out of possession[1][2][5]. Hayes, poached from Chelsea after her successful stint winning the Women's Super League and Champions League, has instilled a tactical mastery focused on possession dominance and quick transitions, with prospects like defender Avery Patterson and attackers like Rodman expected to feature prominently[2]. This camp introduces fresh NWSL talent, vital for World Cup prep.

Paraguay, meanwhile, arrives with CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying in mind, facing Ecuador in April. Their squad draws from domestic and South American leagues, with a couple in Europe, but key absences mean a direct, counter-attacking style to disrupt the US. Past meetings underline the mismatch: USA thrashed them 8-0 and 9-0 in 2021 friendlies[3]. Expect the Americans to control the tempo at Dignity Health Sports Park, a 27,000-capacity venue known for its electric atmosphere during USWNT games[4]. Weather forecasts mild conditions around 18°C with light winds, ideal for flowing football[1].

For UK audiences, this match underscores the growing global appeal of women's international football, even if access requires navigating geo-blocks. The unified broadcast team across TNT, truTV and HBO Max ensures consistent quality, with Walsh's presentation linking Foudy's historical wisdom, Boxx's tactical depth and Wileman's vivid commentary. Fans can anticipate discussions on Hayes' integration of youth, like goalkeeper hopefuls Claudia D and Jordan Silkowitz, alongside veterans[2].

Historically, friendlies like this serve as proving grounds; the USWNT's unbeaten streak and goal tally signal continued dominance, but Paraguay's compact setup could test their buildup play[2]. UK viewers might draw parallels to Lionesses' preparations, appreciating the shared high-stakes build-up to 2027 World Cup cycles. As Hayes noted, prioritising player happiness drives performance, a philosophy resonating with British fans familiar with Sarina Wiegman's methods[5].

To fully immerse, British supporters should prepare VPN setups for HBO Max, where subscription unlocks the feed. TNT and truTV, part of Warner Bros. Discovery, may offer delayed highlights, but live action demands US access. This coverage team elevates the broadcast: Foudy's two World Cup triumphs and Boxx's Olympic haul provide authenticity, while Wileman's international portfolio bridges North American flair with global appeal.

Learn more about the USWNT's storied history or Emma Hayes' coaching journey from Chelsea to USA, and check upcoming Women's World Cup details. With the match at Dignity Health Sports Park honouring Christen Press, it's a poignant start to 2026, blending celebration and competition. UK fans, mark your calendars for 22:30 – this is unmissable women's football.

The tactical preview from Hayes emphasises mastering in-possession decisions and out-of-possession organisation, aligning with USWNT's aggressive ethos[5]. Paraguay's strategy of compactness and counters mirrors underdog tactics seen in recent CONMEBOL clashes, where they notched wins over Chile and Venezuela but fell to Brazil and Colombia[1]. For British readers, it's a reminder of how friendlies sharpen edges for majors, much like England's pre-tournament tests.

In summary, while no BBC or ITV slot, the US coverage promises excellence. Sara Walsh's ESPN-honed skills, Luke Wileman's World Cup calls, Julie Foudy's championship pedigree, Shannon Boxx's analytical edge and Melissa Ortiz's reporting form a dream panel. Expect dominant US play, potential debuts and insights galore – perfect for late-night UK viewing.