Paraguay finalizes preparations for France clash in World Cup 2026

Paraguay's national soccer team is in the final stages of preparation for a crucial World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against France. The squad conducted its last training session at the University of Pennsylvania, fine-tuning strategies for the high-stakes encounter scheduled for Saturday at 5:00 PM local time.

A key development in training was the return of defender Omar Alderete, who had been sidelined with an injury. However, his readiness to start remains in question, leading to the likelihood of José Canale forming the central defensive partnership with captain Gustavo Gómez. The team is buoyed by their previous historic victory over Germany and is focused on recovering from the physical demands of that match.

Coach Gustavo Alfaro is expected to maintain the core lineup that secured the upset win in Boston, with potential adjustments. The probable formation features Orlando Gill in goal, a defense of Juan Cáceres, Gustavo Gómez, José Canale, and Junior Alonso, a midfield trio of Diego Gómez, Damián Bobadilla, Andrés Cubas, and Matías Galarza, and an attacking duo of Miguel Almirón and Julio Enciso. Paraguay approaches this significant challenge against a tournament powerhouse with undiminished hope of making further history in the World Cup.