Asuncion, June 2: Paraguay head coach Gustavo Alfaro has unveiled his 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with rising star Julio Enciso among the standout names selected for the tournament in North America.
The South American nation is set to make its first World Cup appearance in 16 years, having last competed at the global showpiece in South Africa in 2010. Paraguay will face Australia, Türkiye and co-hosts the United States in Group D as they seek to make a strong return to football’s biggest stage.
Leading the squad is 22-year-old attacking sensation Julio Enciso, who is widely regarded as one of Paraguay’s brightest talents. The young forward will be expected to play a key role in the team’s attacking plans alongside experienced campaigners Miguel Almiron and Antonio Sanabria.
Almiron, who currently stars for Major League Soccer side Atlanta United, brings valuable international experience to the squad, while Sanabria adds further firepower in the final third.
Alfaro has also placed considerable faith in a solid defensive unit led by two of South America’s most established centre-backs. Palmeiras captain Gustavo Gomez and Gremio defender Fabian Balbuena are expected to anchor Paraguay’s backline and provide the stability needed against high-quality opposition.The squad reflects a blend of youth and experience as Alfaro looks to guide La Albirroja through a challenging group-stage campaign. (AP)
PARAGUAY SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Orlando Gill Roberto Fernandez Gaston Olveira
Defenders: Juan Caceres Gustavo Velazquez Gustavo Gomez Junior Alonso Jose Canale Omar Alderete Alexandro Maidana Fabian Balbuena
Midfielders: Diego Gomez Mauricio Magalhaes Damian Bobadilla Braian Ojeda Andres Cubas Matias Galarza Alejandro Gamarra
Forwards: Gustavo Caballero Ramon Sosa Alex Arce Isidro Pitta Gabriel Avalos Miguel Almiron Julio Enciso Antonio Sanabria.
