Knowing Paraguay

Paraguay Brings Grit, History and a Point to Prove

Don't let the 41st FIFA ranking fool you. Paraguay arrives at the 2026 World Cup as a team built for exactly this kind of moment, and the United States would be wise not to underestimate them.

La Albirroja are making their first World Cup appearance since 2010, when they reached the quarterfinals, which is the best run in the nation's history. That tournament showcased everything Paraguay is about: defensive solidarity, collective effort, and an almost stubborn refusal to be outworked. Under head coach Gustavo Alfaro, a 63-year-old Argentine who took over after the 2024 Copa América and immediately revived a struggling program, that identity is very much intact.

Alfaro guided Paraguay through a competitive qualifying campaign, highlighted by a stunning upset of world champions Argentina, to finish sixth in CONMEBOL and book their ticket to North America. Their World Cup preparation closed with a convincing 4-0 win over Nicaragua, though it came at a cost: creative midfielder Julio Enciso exited with a thigh injury, and his availability for Friday remains in doubt.

Enciso's absence would be significant. The 22-year-old RC Strasbourg forward is Paraguay's most dangerous creative force, capable of producing moments that change matches. Should he miss out, the burden shifts to 23-year-old Brighton midfielder Diego Gómez and Brazilian-born newcomer Maurício of Palmeiras, who has slotted smoothly into the setup. Atlanta United's Miguel Almirón adds pace and experience on the wing.

Historically, the U.S. holds the upper hand, owning a 5-2-2 all-time record against Paraguay, including a 2-1 friendly win last November. But Paraguay's grit is precisely what makes them dangerous in competitive environments, and this couldn't be more competitive.