Paraguay has advanced to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 16-year drought that stretches back to their last tournament appearance in 2010. President Santiago Peña declared September 5, 2025, a public holiday when the team initially secured qualification, and the celebrations have only intensified as Paraguay now prepares for a potential matchup against Germany in the next round.
From qualification drought to knockout stage
Paraguay earned its spot in the 2026 World Cup through a sixth-place finish in the expanded CONMEBOL qualifiers. A crucial 0-0 draw against Ecuador clinched the berth, setting off nationwide celebrations that prompted the presidential holiday declaration.
The team’s resurgence has been credited in part to coach Gustavo Alfaro, who took charge in August 2024. Under his leadership, Paraguay recorded historic victories over regional powerhouses Brazil and Argentina during the qualification cycle.
Prediction markets light up around Paraguay’s matches
