RB Bragantino · Goalkeeper · #56 · 20 yrs
Full preview of Paraguay for the 2026 World Cup, including squad breakdown, key players, and tactical analysis of their chances. Paraguay is officially returning to the global stage after a 16-year absence, ending a drought that spanned three consecutive tournaments. La Albirroja brings its trademark defensive grit to the competition, aiming to frustrate the world’s premier soccer nations. Currently ranked 40th internationally, the South American squad stabilized a rocky qualification cycle to secure its spot among the FIFA World Cup 2026 teams. Placed in a highly competitive group alongside the United States, Turkey, and Australia, expectations are firmly set on reaching the knockout rounds. This World Cup 2026 team preview covers everything you need to know about the squad heading into the tournament. We will break down their defensive structure, highlight star playmaker Julio Enciso, and analyze the depth that makes them a difficult opponent. Team profile CoachGustavo AlfaroCaptainGustavo GomezNicknameLos Guaraníes, La AlbirrojaFIFA ranking40thConfederationCONMEBOLGroupDBest World Cup resultQuarter-finals (2010)World Cup appearances9Last World Cup appearance2010 How Paraguay play The Paraguay formation typically shifts between a structured 4-4-2 and a 4-2-3-1, relying heavily on a disciplined low block when out of possession. Under their current leadership, the team prioritizes defensive solidity over expansive soccer. This deep, compact shape makes them incredibly difficult to break down. During qualifying, La Albirroja conceded an average of just 9.83 shots and 0.56 goals per match. They are comfortable sacrificing the ball, averaging merely 38% possession across their qualification campaign. However, this Paraguay tactical analysis highlights that their defensive commitment severely limits their attacking output. They generated the fourth-lowest expected goals (xG) in South American qualifying, managing just 10.83 shots per game. This lack of offensive production means they rarely dictate the pace of a match through sustained possession. In transition, the team relies on quick counter-attacks to threaten opponents. Playmakers like Julio Enciso provide the necessary creative spark to turn defensive stops into scoring opportunities. Ultimately, this tactical approach suggests their tournament success hinges on keeping matches tight and capitalizing on limited chances. Gustavo Alfaro: The coach behind Paraguay Gustavo Alfaro took charge in August 2024 and immediately transformed a chaotic squad into a highly organized unit. Known across South America as “The Professor,” the Paraguay coach is a tactical disciplinarian who prioritizes defensive structure. His extensive resume includes managing major Argentine clubs like Boca Juniors and San Lorenzo. On the international stage, he brings valuable tournament experience, having previously guided Ecuador through the 2022 global competition and recently managing Costa Rica. His pragmatic approach is perfectly suited for international knockout soccer, where avoiding mistakes often outweighs expansive attacking play. Alfaro is widely viewed as a savior by supporters after ending the nation’s long qualification drought. His pragmatic leadership and ability to orchestrate massive upsets against regional giants will be the defining factor in how far this team can advance this summer. Key player: Julio Enciso While the roster features several established professionals, Julio Enciso stands out among the Paraguay key players. The 22-year-old forward operates in a highly fluid role, typically starting on the left flank or centrally as a number 10. Currently playing for Strasbourg on loan from Brighton, Enciso serves as the primary creative engine for his national side. He has recorded four goals in 31 international appearances, including crucial match-winners during the qualification cycle. Julio Encima of Paraguay (Getty Images). His ability to roam into the half-spaces and attack defende
In Morocco's most recent friendly match, Abde Ezzalzouli had to be substituted due to an injury. A few hours later, the 24-year-old star was reportedly diagnosed with a sprain of the medial collateral ligament. As a result, he is expected to miss the 2026 World Cup. Morocco have managed to become one of the best national teams in Africa, building a promising roster. However, Abde Ezzalzouli had to be substituted in the previous match against Norway, raising concerns among everyone. A few hours later, the 24-year-old star was reportedly diagnosed with a sprain of the internal knee ligament, leading to expectations that he will miss the 2026 World Cup. According to Hanif Ben Berkane, a well-known journalist from Morocco, Abde has been diagnosed with a sprain of the internal knee ligament. With a recovery timeline of 3–4 weeks, he is expected to miss the 2026 World Cup. As the national team’s most decisive player, his absence is a huge blow to their competitiveness in the tournament. Without the presence of Abde Ezzalzouli, most of Morocco’s attacking responsibilities would fall to Brahim Diaz. Although he does not possess the same change of pace, the 26-year-old star has proven capable of orchestrating the entire national team attack. Not only does he create opportunities for his teammates, but he also leads the team in terms of goal scoring. Facing Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in the 2026 World Cup, Abde’s absence could seriously limit Morocco’s chances. Without his change of pace and dribbling ability, they could struggle to impose their dominant style of play. Beyond his statistical contribution, the 24-year-old was a leader at the collective level, meaning his impact will be felt across the team, not just in the attacking phase. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli of Morocco is challenged by Gustavo Gomez of Paraguay. Morocco’s instability could take its toll at the 2026 World Cup Throughout the past few years, Morocco have managed to become one of the best national teams in the world. Not only did they impress at the 2022 World Cup, but they also won the Africa Cup of Nations, by decision of the Federation. However, the departure of Walid Regragui as head coach noticeably destabilized the sporting project. In addition, Abde Ezzalzouli’s injury could be the final blow to their hopes of shining at the 2026 edition. Without having the same key figures from their stellar project, the Atlas Lions now leave more doubts than certainties. Despite being among the favorites to surprise once again at the 2026 World Cup, they have undergone major changes within the national team that have halted their sporting rise. In addition, Soufiane Rahimi needs to step up to replace Abde, something far from simple given that he is one of the best wingers in Europe. Alongside Abde, Noussair Mazraoui could miss Morocco’s debut in the anticipated tournament against Brazil. Suffering from a shoulder subluxation, Youssef Belammari would take over the starting role, further weakening the left side. Because of this, head coach Mohamed Ouahbi faces the challenge of restoring competitiveness to a national team that has been heavily affected by injuries and changes within the coaching staff.
Paraguay won the friendly match against Nicaragua 4-0, but left worried about Julio Enciso's injury. Paraguay bid farewell to their fans in a friendly match against Nicaragua ahead of their World Cup debut against the United States on June 12. While the 4-0 victory was convincing, the most important moment of the night was the injury to Julio Enciso, which raised alarm within the team. From the opening minute, it was clear that Paraguay were the better side. While they built a two-goal lead in the first half, the main story of the day was Enciso’s reaction. The creative midfielder stopped play, punched the grass in pain, and grabbed the back of his right leg before leaving the field in tears with an injury that could be a tear or it may just be a knock. Manager Gustavo Alfaro opted to make 10 substitutions at halftime to spread the minutes around. Even with the changes, Paraguay did not lose their attacking intent, as the bench players looked eager to show their quality. That helped complete a clear 4-0 win and give the fans reason to feel optimistic.
Gustavo Poyet, who spent four years at Chelsea as a player and now manages Saudi Pro League side Al-Khaleej, believes his former club have made a good move by appointing Xabi Alonso as their new manager. “Very good appointment, very diligent from the board.” Gus Poyet shares his thoughts on Chelsea hiring Xabi Alonso as […] The post “Very good appointment” – Former midfielder Gustavo Poyet praises Chelsea board for appointing Xabi Alonso (Video) appeared first on Soccer News.
