After a lengthy absence, Paraguay is back at the World Cup following their exit against future champions Spain in 2010. They are setting their sights on a strong defensive strategy and tactical organization for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Path to Qualification:
Paraguay secured qualification as the last of the six South American teams, finishing well above Bolivia, who claimed the seventh position and entered the intercontinental playoffs.
Group Stage Matches:
- June 12th: Paraguay vs USA — Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood, California (9 p.m. ET)
- June 20th: Paraguay vs. UEFA Playoffs C (Slovakia, Kosovo, Turkiye, Romania) — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (12 a.m. ET)
- June 25th: Australia vs Paraguay — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (10 p.m. ET)
Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, UEFA Playoffs C | 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw
In Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Paraguay will compete against the United States, Australia, and the winner of the UEFA Playoffs C.
Previous World Cup Appearances:
- 1930, 1950, 1958, 1986, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010
What is Paraguay’s highest World Cup achievement?
Key Players for Paraguay:
Young forward Julio Enciso has been a standout performer, netting four goals in 29 games for Paraguay. He looks up to experienced players Miguel Almiron and Antonio Sanabria, who are expected to lead the attack moving forward.
Diego Gomez from Brighton is another promising midfielder on the rise, while Diego Luna, a former Manchester United player, is one to watch if selected for the final roster.
Defensively, Paraguay is well-equipped with solid centre-backs like Gustavo Gomez and Omar Alderete, who will play crucial roles during the tournament.
Head Coach for Paraguay:
Gustavo Alfaro, a seasoned figure in South American football, has revitalized Paraguay with his pragmatic, defensive style since taking charge in 2024. Previously, he guided Ecuador to the 2022 World Cup.
Paraguay’s All-Time Leading Goal Scorer:
- Rock Santa Cruz: 32 goals
- He has played for clubs including Olimpia, Bayern Munich, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Betis, Malaga, Cruz Azul, and Libertad.
Paraguay’s Most Capped Player:
- Paulo da Silva: 148 caps
- His career includes stints at Lanus, Venice, Cosenza, Libertad, Toluca, Sunderland, Zaragoza, Pachuca, Independiente, and Atlantida.
Paraguay’s Team Nickname:
- Guarani, La Albirroja
Country Overview:
- Population: Approximately 7.05 million
- Capital: Asuncion
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Fan Take: Paraguay’s return to the World Cup is significant as it showcases the resilience of a nation that once reached impressive heights in football. Their defensive strategy may resonate with fans who appreciate the tactical nuances of the game, making their matches must-watch events for true soccer enthusiasts.
