The Paraguay Under-15 national team has been crowned 2026 world champions in fútbol de salón (futsal) after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Colombia. The U-15 Futsal World Champions final took place in front of a capacity crowd at the Tupá Ra’y stadium in Carmen del Paraná, Itapúa.
The home side, known as the Albirrojita, secured the title with a late goal, sealing a perfect tournament run of six victories in six matches. The winning goal came from Kevin Benítez with just 51 seconds remaining on the clock in extra time, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.
A hard-fought final
The final match on 13 September, was a tightly contested affair from the start. Colombia took an early lead through Juan Álvarez. However, Paraguay responded quickly with an equaliser from Gahel Vázquez, and the score remained level at 1-1 at the end of regular time, forcing the game into an extra period.
Paraguay’s Mateo Espínola gave his team the lead for the first time early in extra time. Yet, the resilient Colombian side fought back, with Álvarez scoring his second goal to level the match at 2-2. Just as the final appeared destined for a penalty shootout, Benítez struck the decisive blow, securing Paraguay’s victory in the closing moments.
A historic achievement
This victory marks a significant moment for Paraguayan futsal. It is the nation’s first world title in the U-15 category, adding a seventh global crown overall for the Paraguayan Futsal Federation. The team’s flawless campaign saw them navigate the group stages and knockout rounds undefeated, culminating in the triumph on home soil.
The tournament, which featured 12 national teams, saw Brazil take third place after defeating Canada 2-1 in the bronze medal match. The host nation’s success writes a new chapter in its rich history in the sport, celebrating a world championship in front of an enthusiastic local crowd.
U-15 Futsal World Champions final standings
For seventh place: USA-Chile 3-1
For fifth place: Argentina-Uruguay 1-0
For third place: Brazil-Canada 2-1
Final standings:
Champion: Paraguay
Runner-up: Colombia
Third Place: Brazil
Fourth Place: Canada
Fifth Place: Argentina
Sixth Place: Uruguay
Seventh Place: USA
Eighth Place: Chile
Ninth Place: Mexico
Tenth Place: Catalonia
Eleventh Place: Australia
Twelfth Place: Bolivia
Also read: Double Podium For Paraguay At South American Futsal Championship In Asunción.
