Paraguay
FIFA World Cup 2026 Team Profile
Alfaro Alfaro
Head Coach
4-4-2
Formation
0
Titles
9
Appearances
Overview
Paraguay return to the World Cup after missing the 2022 edition, bringing a young, energetic squad looking to recapture the form of the 2010 quarter-final run. As one of the smallest nations to qualify from CONMEBOL, La Albirroja will be hoping to surprise.
Road to World Cup 2026
Paraguay secured one of the CONMEBOL spots via the long South American qualification campaign, edging out several rivals in the closing rounds.
Qualification: CONMEBOL qualification
Key Players to Watch
- Miguel Almirón
- Julio Enciso
- Fabian Balbuena
- Gustavo Gómez
Strengths
Team spirit, defensive organization, and a strong spine. The squad has several Premier League and European-based players.
Weaknesses
Goalscoring remains a concern. The side can be over-reliant on counter-attacks and set pieces.
World Cup 2026 Chances
Reaching the round of 32 in a 48-team tournament is the realistic target. A group-stage upset is within reach.
Historical World Cup Performance
Nine prior appearances, with quarter-final finishes in 1998 and 2010 as the high points. The 2010 run included a famous penalty shootout win over Japan.
Best result: Quarter-finals (2010, 1998)
Last World Cup: Did not qualify (2022)
Match Schedule
USA vs Paraguay
Türkiye vs Paraguay
Paraguay vs Australia