Orlando Gill: From doubt to consolidation as Paraguay's World Cup 2026 star

Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill has recounted his meteoric ascent and impressive performance during the 2026 World Cup, transforming early doubts into a display of solid goalkeeping that has attracted European football interest. His journey in the tournament was a rollercoaster of emotions.

Just days before Paraguay's debut, his confirmation as the starting goalkeeper sparked uncertainty among fans and the press. However, following an initial tough loss to the United States and the team's subsequent improvement, the San Lorenzo de Almagro keeper emerged as one of the Albirroja's mainstays, earning public respect and international acclaim.

Reflecting on his experience, Gill described his career as "very fast." He stated, "In less than two years, reaching the senior national team, being called up, and playing in a World Cup at my young age, being the starting goalkeeper, is a tremendous achievement." He admitted that the pressure of taking the starting role was significant, but emphasized the crucial support he received. "The coach (Gustavo Alfaro) and Justo Villar (former Albirroja goalkeeper) spoke with me a few days before, gave me their support and advice; I took it with great responsibility," he commented.

Gill revealed that he used the criticism he faced after the first match as fuel for improvement. "It helped me to keep improving. Because a goalkeeper has to do that, try to get better every day." A highlight of his performance was the match against Germany, where he felt immense pride in withstanding the German onslaught and forcing a penalty shootout, during which he made key saves. "I had the first penalty taker (Havertz) well studied, and once I saved that penalty, I could be calmer," he explained, even admitting he felt confident enough to take a penalty himself if needed.

Despite the team's elimination by France in the round of 16, Gill feels a sense of regret, believing they could have advanced to the quarterfinals if the match had gone to penalties. Now, with the tournament concluded, Gill is processing the impact of his performance. While he remains grounded, rumors of interest from European clubs persist. "They told me there is interest, but there is no formal offer yet," he clarified, already looking towards the next chapter of his promising professional career.

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El profe (Gustavo Alfaro) y Justo Villar (exarquero albirrojo) me hablaron unos días antes, me dieron su apoyo y consejos; lo tomé con mucha responsabilidad