Paraguay’s return to soccer’s elite stage is a testament to their revitalized focus on defense and resilience. After struggling for years with a possession-oriented strategy that yielded little result, the team found its footing under coach Gustavo Alfaro. When he took the helm in August 2024, Alfaro delivered a clear message: “Paraguayan DNA, intensity, clean sheets. That’s what will get us to the World Cup.” His vision is now coming to fruition.
Reinvention for Success
Sticking predominantly to a 4-4-2 formation, Alfaro occasionally switches to a back five during challenging high-altitude games against Ecuador and Bolivia. For the World Cup, he is expected to favor a traditional 4-4-2 but may also employ a 4-2-3-1 formation to optimize their tactics.
Under Alfaro’s guidance, Paraguay has undergone a significant transformation since he replaced Daniel Guarnero after an unsuccessful Copa America campaign. Their first match away against Uruguay showcased their newfound strength, and impressive home victories over Brazil and Argentina dispelled any lingering doubts about the “new” Albiroja’s capabilities.
Paraguay: Group D Fixtures
June 12 vs. USA, Los Angeles (6 PM local, June 13 at 2 AM BST, June 13 at 10 AM AEST)
June 19 vs. Turkey, San Francisco (8 PM local, June 20 at 4 AM BST, June 20 at 1 PM AEST)
June 25 vs. Australia, San Francisco (7 PM local, June 26 at 3 AM BST, June 26 at noon AEST)
During the qualifying rounds, Paraguay achieved a remarkable record under Alfaro, losing only once to Brazil. They secured admirable draws in high-stakes matches against Bolivia and Ecuador at elevations of 4,100 and 2,800 meters, respectively. A tense goalless draw at home against Ecuador added to the excitement, prompting President Santiago Peña to declare a national holiday in celebration.
The team’s strength lies not just in their physicality and intensity, but in their ability to make tactically astute plays from the back. Key to this system is Julio Enciso, whose talent has the potential to shift the momentum of games and create opportunities.
A Visionary Leader
Gustavo Alfaro’s influence rejuvenated the Paraguayan national team, steering them towards success after years of disappointment. After retiring as a player in 1992, he embraced a coaching career. His tenacity and defensive prowess led Arsenal de Sarandi to victory in the 2007 Copa Sudamericana and the 2012 Argentine Primera División, establishing him as a celebrated defensive strategist.
One of Alfaro’s most notable successes came when he guided a young Ecuadorian squad to the 2022 World Cup. An avid reader, he often infuses philosophical insights into his coaching approach, while his publication following the World Cup journey, titled “Cazadores de Utopías Imposibles,” reflects his thoughtful methodology.
Key Player to Watch
Julio Enciso is one of the standout talents in Paraguayan football over the past two decades. Known as “La Jolla” (The Jewel), he made headlines at Libertad before debuting for the national team at just 17. His journey progressed to the Premier League with Brighton, where he displayed moments of brilliance, including a Puskas Trophy-worthy goal against Manchester City. However, injury setbacks and management changes have affected his impact.
Now playing in Strasbourg, Enciso is quick, direct, and a game-changer. He recently dedicated his World Cup dream to his grandfather, expressing hope that he is watching proudly from above.
Emerging Talent
Damien Bobadilla, the son of former goalkeeper Aldo Bobadilla, has made a name for himself in midfield. Unlike his father, Damien chose not to don the gloves and became a standout player instead. Rising through the ranks at Cerro Porteño, he exemplifies the qualities of a proficient box-to-box midfielder. Now with Sao Paulo in Brazil’s first division, Bobadilla has established himself as a key player at just 24 years old, positioning himself for future accolades if he continues on his current trajectory.
The Team’s Backbone
Andres Cubas serves as the heartbeat of the Paraguayan squad, providing balance and winning duels with an unwavering competitive spirit. Primarily a defensive midfielder, Cubas possesses the ability to transition rapidly into attack. Although smaller in stature at 5-foot-6, his intelligence, positioning, and tenacity have made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Enthusiasm and Support
With Paraguayan travel agents offering packages to the U.S. for the World Cup, prices start at $20,000, considerably high compared to the country’s average monthly salary of $450. Despite this, an influx of fans is anticipated, marking Paraguay’s first World Cup appearance in 16 years. As the streets of Inglewood and Santa Clara transform into a sea of red, white, and blue, the passionate shout of “La Albirroux!” will resonate, celebrating their national pride.
Political Ties with the United States
The longstanding relationship between Paraguay and the United States remains strong, as new President Santiago Peña expressed enthusiasm for Donald Trump’s potential reelection. Described by Marco Rubio as a “strong ally,” Peña has drawn both attention and criticism, particularly after Trump’s flippant remarks about him. Despite the political theater, the partnership is positioned to endure, guided by both nations’ shared interests.
Written by Cristian Perez and Oscar Gomez for VS Sports.
