After nearly two decades away from the World Cup stage, Paraguay is poised to compete fiercely against Australia, the USA, and Turkey. Their last participation was in 2010, when they achieved their best result by reaching the quarter-finals, ultimately bowing out to the legendary Spanish team.
For years, La Albirroja appeared adrift, but a turning point came following a disappointing showing in the 2024 Copa América. The arrival of Gustavo Alfaro, a coach who has steered Paraguay away from the brink of disaster, marked a fresh beginning.
The 63-year-old Argentinian has revitalized a team that once seemed hopeless. He has instilled confidence, enhanced individual performances, and forged a strong collective spirit. Transforming Paraguay from a team facing ridicule into one of the most formidable sides in South America, they have made an impression by defeating Brazil and the reigning world champions Argentina during qualification, including a dramatic comeback victory in Asunción.
Every team in Group D must take La Albirroja seriously. They have regrouped, solidified their strengths, and added vital new dimensions. “I would love people to see Paraguay again as the team no one wants to face,” Alfaro expressed upon taking charge in August 2024. Initially met with skepticism, his vision has proven to be accurate.
Under Alfaro’s leadership, Paraguay has lost only once away during the qualifiers, with that solitary defeat coming at the hands of Brazil. Together with Ecuador and Argentina, they emerged as one of the competition’s top contenders and earned the nickname “the hunter of utopias.”
The team has restored its traditional strengths, characterized by a nearly impenetrable defense and impressive structural balance. Rather than employing a high press, they focus their efforts in midfield, creating a potentially perilous situation for their opponents.
Their tactical discipline allows them to consistently stifle the creativity of rival teams. While opposing teams struggle to maintain their attacking flow, Paraguay capitalizes on quick transitions and precision. They typically operate in a 4-2-3-1 formation during pressing phases, but revert to a compact 4-4-2 when defending.
While Paraguay may not be a high-scoring side, they prioritize effectiveness and efficiency to secure victories. Opponents who dominate possession may find themselves in a precarious situation, which could pose a greater challenge for Turkey, expected to have more ball control than Paraguay, than it would for Australia or the USA.
Defensive prowess has long been a hallmark of Paraguayan football. Under Alfaro, La Albirroja has not only reclaimed this trait but has also evolved it with progressive buildup play. Central defender Omar Alderete has been impressive, while captain Gustavo Gómez remains among South America’s elite center-backs. Their defensive credentials are underscored by having conceded just 10 goals in 18 qualifiers, marking the best record in the competition.
The team’s backbone is comprised of Andrés Cubas from the Vancouver Whitecaps. This defensive midfielder excels at closing down spaces, displaying exceptional game awareness, and exuding relentless energy. Despite standing at just 1.66m, his fierce intensity often catches opponents off guard.
In the attacking phase, Paraguay heavily relies on Julio Enciso’s creativity. The Strasbourg player is arguably the most significant Paraguayan talent to emerge in the last three decades, possessing all the qualities of a game-changer: dribbling, speed, creativity, power, and a formidable mid-range shot. However, concerns have arisen since the 22-year-old sustained a thigh injury during a pre-tournament friendly against Nicaragua, just a week before their opening match against the USA. His recovery will be closely monitored as he remains on the squad.
Despite their practicality and efficiency, Paraguay lacks the creativity and sustained offensive pressure that could enhance their threat level. They depend significantly on Enciso’s individual brilliance or set pieces to generate scoring opportunities. Antonio Sanabria leads the attack, showcasing elegance and technical skill, yet arrives at the World Cup with limited match fitness after sparse playing time at Cremonese in Italy.
Paraguay exemplifies the type of team that poses a significant challenge in World Cup scenarios: disciplined, physical, and suffocating. They remain dangerous on the counterattack, a traditional strength that aligns with the youthful vigor of Australia’s attacking lineup. Additionally, their aerial prowess from set pieces is likely to test even the most formidable defenses.
