South America unites behind the Albirroja: regional cheers multiply online before World Cup debut
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Thousands of fans across South America are showing support for Paraguay's national football team, the Albirroja, on social media ahead of their 2026 World Cup debut.
- Messages of encouragement from countries like Colombia and Argentina highlight a rare regional unity, transcending historical rivalries.
- Coach Gustavo Alfaro's positive reputation in the continent is also seen as a factor contributing to the widespread enthusiasm for the team.
As Paraguay prepares for its 2026 World Cup debut, an unusual wave of regional support is building across South America. Social media platforms are buzzing with messages of encouragement for the Albirroja, Paraguay's national team, from fans in various neighboring countries.
From Colombia, I will be cheering for our Paraguayan brothers. Latin America will be well represented.
Users from Colombia and Argentina have shared messages expressing solidarity with Paraguay, with some stating they will cheer for the team after their own national sides. This sentiment of collective backing for Paraguay is notable, especially given the intense rivalries often seen in South American football.
Go Paraguay, after my country Argentina, I will cheer for you.
The widespread enthusiasm is partly attributed to the positive image of coach Gustavo Alfaro. His past successes with national teams and clubs across the continent have earned him widespread respect, with fans in Colombia expressing particular admiration and hope for Paraguay's performance in the tournament.
I haven't remembered such a great feeling of all of South America being united with one country as will happen with Paraguay in this World Cup.
Paraguay is set to face the host nation in its opening match, a high-stakes game that has captured the attention of fans. While the team has yet to play a single minute in the World Cup, it has already achieved a significant feat in regional football: fostering a sense of collective support that extends beyond traditional rivalries.
How great is Alfaro. We like him a lot in Colombia and we hope the Paraguayan has an excellent World Cup.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.