Paraguay no underdogs after World Cup turnaround, coach says

Paraguay's coach Gustavo Alfaro declared his team should never feel like underdogs, even after a challenging World Cup match. His comments followed a dramatic 1-0 victory over Turkey, secured by a goal just 64 seconds into the game from Matias Galarza.

Despite facing intense pressure and playing with 10 men after Miguel Almiron's dismissal in first-half stoppage time, Paraguay held on for the win. Alfaro emphasized his team's fighting spirit, stating, "We can face better teams and more important or prestigious opponents, we respect this, but we are never going to feel underdogs or inferior to any other opponents."

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We can face better teams and more important or prestigious opponents, we respect this, but we are never going to feel underdogs or inferior to any other opponents.

The win was a significant turnaround for Paraguay, who had suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat against co-hosts the United States in their opening match. Coach Alfaro had publicly criticized the media's treatment of his players before the Turkey game, urging them to hold him accountable instead. This victory not only eliminated Turkey from the tournament but also confirmed the U.S. as group winners.

Paraguay will now prepare for their final group match against Australia on June 25. Alfaro highlighted that the win was a testament to his players' spirit, not just tactics. "I want that fighting spirit... and even if people think we're dead, we're not dead," he told reporters, expressing his pride in their resilience.

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I want that fighting spirit ... and even if people think we're dead, we're not dead.