Paraguay is gearing up for the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking their return to the global stage after missing the last three editions. Here's a comprehensive preview of La Albirroja ("The White and Red"), including their key players, potential roster, and historical background.

Road to 2026

Paraguay secured an automatic qualification spot for the 2026 World Cup, finishing sixth in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings. Notably, they achieved impressive victories against Brazil and Argentina during the qualification matches.

Drawn into Group D, Paraguay will face the United States, Australia, and the winner of the UEFA Playoff C (either Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia, or Kosovo). Their schedule is as follows:

• June 12: USA vs. Paraguay - Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California
• June 19: UEFA Playoff C winner vs. Paraguay - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California
• June 25: Paraguay vs. Australia - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California

Potential Roster and Key Players

While the final roster is yet to be confirmed, a likely selection based on recent call-ups and player form includes:

• Goalkeepers: Roberto Fernandez, Orlando Gill, Aldo Perez.
• Defenders: Gustavo Gomez (captain), Junior Alonso, Juan Caceres, Blas Riveros, Gustavo Velazquez, Alan Benitez, Agustin Sandez, Alexis Duarte.
• Midfielders: Miguel Almiron, Alejandro Romero Gamarra, Ramon Sosa, Diego Gomez, Damian Bobadilla, Braian Ojeda.
• Forwards: Julio Enciso, Antonio Sanabria, Alex Arce.

Key players to watch include:

• Gustavo Gomez: The experienced Palmeiras captain and center-back, a leader both on and off the field.
• Miguel Almiron: The dynamic Atlanta United attacking midfielder, known for his pace, creativity, and goal-scoring ability.
• Julio Enciso: A talented young attacking midfielder who plays for BlueCo and Strasbourg, who scored three goals in Paraguay's qualification campaign.

Historical World Cup Performances

Paraguay has qualified for ten FIFA World Cup competitions. Their best performance was in 2010, where they reached the quarter-finals. They also participated in the World Cups of 1930, 1950, 1958, 1986, 1998, 2002 and 2006.

Copa América Success

Paraguay has a rich history in the Copa América, winning the tournament twice, in 1953 and 1979. In 1953, they defeated Brazil 3-2 in the final to claim their first title. In 1979, they won the competition after defeating Chile in the finals.

Historical figures

Throughout its history, Paraguayan football has been marked by influential figures.

• Arsenio Erico: Considered by many as the greatest Paraguayan footballer of all time.
• José Luis Chilavert: A legendary goalkeeper known for his penalty-taking abilities and strong personality. Chilavert was named to the 1998 FIFA World Cup Team of the Tournament.
• Roque Santa Cruz: The all-time leading goalscorer for Paraguay with 32 goals.
• Paulo da Silva: The player with the most appearances for the national team, with 148 caps.

Outlook for 2026

With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, Paraguay aims to make a significant impact at the World Cup 2026. Their qualification demonstrates their potential, and under the guidance of coach Gustavo Alfaro, they will be a team to watch.