Paraguay 2026 World Cup preview: Back to roots with defensive strength
Quick Look
Paraguay, under coach Gustavo Alfaro, returns to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, relying on defensive strength and collective intensity, with star player Julio Enciso leading the charge.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Paraguay returns to the World Cup after 16 years with a new defensive strategy.
Paraguay earned their World Cup spot by reverting to defensive strength and collective intensity under coach Gustavo Alfaro. After years of unsuccessful possession-based football, Alfaro’s 4-4-2 formation, emphasizing clean sheets and intensity, proved successful. Notable wins against Brazil and Argentina at home, and heroic draws in challenging conditions, sealed their qualification. Star player Julio Enciso, despite injuries and reduced impact in Brighton, remains crucial with his game-changing talent. Damián Bobadilla and Andrés Cubas are key midfielders, with Cubas providing defensive balance. Thousands of Paraguayan fans, despite high travel costs, are expected to attend, bringing their iconic chants. Paraguay’s president, Santiago Peña, has a noted alliance with the US, though a recent comment by Donald Trump introduced tension.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Paraguay will exit in the group stage
Likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- How will Paraguay perform against top-tier teams in the World Cup?
