Paraguay concluded its World Cup preparations with a commanding 4-0 victory over Nicaragua, though the celebrations were dampened by a significant injury concern. The match, held in a completely full Defensores del Chaco stadium, saw the national team, known as the Albirroja (The White and Red), deliver a strong performance. However, the triumph was overshadowed by the early departure of key player Julio Enciso, who left the field in tears. The Enciso injury concern created instant alarm within the Paraguayan camp ahead of their World Cup campaign.
The scoreline in Asunción could have been even more substantial if not for the efforts of Nicaraguan goalkeeper Adonis Pineda, who made several key saves throughout the contest. Despite his performance, Paraguay’s attacking quality proved too much for the visiting side. The team now looks ahead to their journey to the United States, but with an anxious wait for medical news regarding one of their most important players.
A fast start for the Albirroja
Paraguay asserted its dominance early in the match, setting a high tempo from the first whistle. Their pressure paid off in the 17th minute when they were awarded a penalty. Alejandro Romero Gamarra stepped up to take the spot-kick and demonstrated remarkable composure. With a moment of brilliance, he delicately chipped the ball passed the diving Adonis Pineda, executing a Panenka-style penalty to give Paraguay a 1-0 lead. This audacious goal delighted the capacity crowd and set the tone for the rest of the first half.
As the first half approached its conclusion, Paraguay struck again. In the 42nd minute, a swift and lethal counter-attack proved decisive. Diego Gómez orchestrated the move, driving forward before playing a perfectly weighted through ball to Miguel Almirón. The forward made no mistake, striking the ball powerfully with his left foot and leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The goal doubled Paraguay’s advantage, sending them into the half-time break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Substitutes seal the victory
At the start of the second half, manager Gustavo Alfaro made extensive changes to the line-up, replacing almost the entire team that started the match. The only player to remain from the first-half changes was Maurício Magalhães, who had already entered the game for the injured Enciso.
The fresh legs introduced in the second half ensured that Paraguay’s momentum did not wane. The third goal arrived in the 62nd minute through Matías Galarza. His strike found the back of the net, aided by a degree of confusion within the Nicaraguan defence, which failed to clear the danger effectively. This goal further cemented Paraguay’s control over the proceedings, increasing the scoreline to 3-0.
Just five minutes later, the home fans had another reason to celebrate. Alexandro Maidana, making his debut for the national team, marked the occasion in the best way possible by scoring the team’s fourth goal in the 67th minute. His successful first appearance for the Albirroja provided a positive highlight on a day of mixed emotions. Meanwhile, several squad members, including Gastón Olveira, Isidro Pitta, Gabriel Ávalos, and Damián Bobadilla, did not feature in the friendly international.
Focus shifts to World Cup opener
With their pre-tournament friendlies now complete, the Paraguayan squad is set to depart for the United States this Saturday. Their focus will immediately turn to their opening match of the 2026 World Cup, where they are scheduled to face the United States on 12 June. The dominant victory against Nicaragua serves as a final boost of confidence on the pitch, demonstrating their readiness for the challenges ahead.
Nevertheless, the uncertainty surrounding the Enciso injury concern casts a shadow over their preparations. The team and the nation will be eagerly awaiting the medical reports, as his potential absence could significantly impact their strategy and chances in the tournament. The coming days will be crucial in determining the final composition and morale of the squad as they begin their World Cup journey.
