Paraguay arrives in the U.S. for World Cup return after emotional national send-off

The Paraguayan national football team, the Albirroja, has landed in San Jose, California, marking their arrival in the United States for the FIFA World Cup. Their journey began with a vibrant and emotional farewell in Paraguay, including a large caravan that accompanied the team to Silvio Pettirossi International Airport.

Fans showed their fervent support as the team departed on a charter flight. Despite a nearly three-hour delay, hundreds of supporters tracked the plane's takeoff online, which was celebrated with a water arch from fire trucks. The national team's official social media account shared their arrival, stating they are in San Jose, California, ready to compete in the World Cup with "the hope of an entire country."

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Hello, United States! The #Albirroja is already in San Jose, California, ready to face the @FIFAWorldCup

The team, managed by Argentine coach Gustavo Alfaro, is making a significant return to the World Cup stage after a 26-year hiatus. This long-awaited participation has generated immense excitement among Paraguayan fans. The anticipation was palpable during a recent friendly match where Paraguay decisively defeated Nicaragua 4-0 in front of a full stadium.

Paraguay is set to begin their World Cup campaign on June 12 against co-host United States at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Their subsequent group stage matches are scheduled against Turkey on July 19 and Australia on July 25. The team's arrival signifies the culmination of years of effort and the embodiment of national pride and dreams, as described by an airport official.

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On this aircraft, not only the Albirroja travels, but also the dreams, passion, and determination of the Guarani grit.