Paraguay adjusts details for final against Australia

The Paraguayan national football team, La Albirroja, is intensely focused on its upcoming decisive match against Australia, the final fixture of Group D in the 2026 World Cup.

Following a vital 1-0 victory over Turkey, Paraguay has regained its footing in Group D and now has a concrete chance of advancing to the next round. The team completed its third training session in San José, California, at the Spartan Soccer Complex. Head coach Gustavo Alfaro is analyzing various tactical options to compensate for the absence of Miguel Almirón and to manage players dealing with physical discomfort.

The upcoming match against Australia, scheduled for Thursday at 7:00 PM local time (11:00 PM in Paraguay) at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, presents a significant challenge. Australia is known for its intense, organized, and physically strong play. Paraguay must find a way to neutralize these strengths while maintaining the identity that led to their comeback victory against Turkey.

Regarding player status, Ramón Sosa is continuing his recovery with differentiated training. Conversely, Gustavo Caballero and Damián Bobadilla have rejoined group training and are showing positive progress from their respective ailments. The primary uncertainty for Alfaro remains how to replace Miguel Almirón, who is suspended after being sent off against Turkey.

Potential replacements for Almirón include Gustavo Caballero, if fully recovered, to provide speed on the wings; Damián Bobadilla, who could strengthen the midfield's defensive capabilities; and Mauricio, another offensive option to support strikers Julio Enciso and Isidro Pitta. The rest of the team's structure is expected to remain similar to the lineup that secured the win against Turkey.

Additionally, the coaching staff is closely monitoring the disciplinary situation. Several players are carrying accumulated yellow cards heading into the final group stage match: Juan Cáceres, Diego Gómez, Junior Alonso, Álex Arce, and Matías Galarza. With qualification on the line and spirits high, Paraguay faces a pivotal week as they aim to make a significant stride in their return to the World Cup after a 16-year absence.