Continental Criticism: 'These are not Paraguayans, they were changed on the bus'

The Paraguayan national football team's dismal debut at the World Cup has drawn sharp criticism from regional football legends. Following a heavy defeat to the United States, former stars expressed shock and disappointment at the team's performance and perceived lack of identity.

Colombian icon Carlos "El Pibe" Valderrama directly questioned the players' authenticity, stating, "These are not Paraguayans; they were changed on the bus." He lamented the loss of the team's historical character and praised the United States' strong play.

Ecuadorian legend Alex Aguinaga drew a damning comparison to South Africa, another team considered weak in the tournament. "I am negatively surprised by Paraguay," Aguinaga said. "I see this Paraguay like this, and South Africa falls short. Walking, walking. You can lose, but what they do – walking the field – with a 3-0 score..."

Former Mexican player and coach Carlos De Los Cobos highlighted the uncharacteristic lack of "temperament and character" from the Paraguayan players. He suggested that even when losing badly, a sign of frustration or fight should be evident, which was notably absent in their performance against the United States.