Paraguay qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 2010, breaking a 16-year absence from the tournament [1, 2, 3]. They faced the United States in their opening Group D match on June 12, 2026, hosted by the U.S. and Canada [1, 4, 2, 5, 3]. Paraguay lost the match 4-1 to the United States, a decisive result [4, 5].
Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro acknowledged the defeat as a "very painful lesson," saying the U.S. team beat them tactically, technically, and physically. "United States won with absolute justice and clarity. They surpassed us tactically, they surpassed us technically and they surpassed us physically," Alfaro said [4, 5]. The U.S. squad features many Europe-based players and is coached by Mauricio Pochettino [1, 2, 3].
Despite the loss, Alfaro said Paraguay are not just at the World Cup to participate but to compete. "We are not here just to be part of the World Cup. We're here to compete," he said before the match, emphasizing focus and decision-making over emotions on the field [1, 4, 2]. He added, "We have to focus on getting the points we need to qualify. Today the World Cup started. It didn't end today," expressing belief Paraguay can still advance from Group D [4].
Alfaro also reflected on Paraguay’s long wait to return. "In my view they have already won. After 16 years they qualified when it seemed impossible, when there was no hope," he said. "We waited 16 years. We can wait one more day" [1].
Paraguay winger Julio Enciso had been recovering from injury prior to the tournament. Alfaro noted his fitness was improving and suggested he might start if ready for upcoming matches [1, 2].
Paraguay’s next group matches are against Turkey and Australia, where they will seek to secure points to advance to the knockout stage [4, 5].
