Paraguay World Cup 2026 Squad: Alderete, Gomez, Almiron Headline 26-Man Roster

Paraguay’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been officially announced, marking the nation’s first appearance at the tournament since 2010. The selection, revealed by the Paraguayan Football Association, blends seasoned internationals with emerging talent, and features a notable contingent of players plying their trade in England. Headlining the list are Sunderland defender Omar Alderete and Brighton midfielder Diego Gomez, both of whom played pivotal roles in helping their clubs secure European qualification this season. The squad also includes former Newcastle United playmaker Miguel Almiron, now at Atlanta United, and Julio Enciso, who left Brighton for Strasbourg

With the World Cup

set to kick off on 11 June across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Paraguay will be eager to make an impact in Group D against the co-host USA, Turkey, and Australia.

Paraguay's Long-Awaited Return

Paraguay’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup ended a 16-year absence from the global stage. They secured the sixth and final automatic CONMEBOL berth, a testament to a resilient campaign under coach Gustavo Alfaro. According to BBC Sport, the squad announcement has generated significant excitement back home, as the nation looks to recapture the spirit of their 2010 run, where they reached the quarter-finals. The current roster reflects a strategic blend of domestic league stalwarts and foreign-based professionals, with a clear emphasis on defensive solidity and midfield creativity. The inclusion of players like Fabian Balbuena (Gremio) and Gustavo Gomez (Palmeiras) provides experience, while younger talents such as Matias Galarza (Atlanta United) and Damian Bobadilla (Sao Paulo) offer dynamism.

English-Based Contingent Leads the Charge

A striking feature of the squad is the number of players with ties to English football. Omar Alderete, a commanding centre-back for Sunderland, has been a revelation in the Championship, and his aerial prowess will be crucial. Diego Gomez, a box-to-box midfielder at Brighton, earned his spot after a breakout season in the Premier League, where his energy and late runs into the box caught the eye. BBC Sport highlights that both players helped their clubs qualify for European competition, underscoring their form. Julio Enciso, once Gomez’s teammate at Brighton, now at Strasbourg, adds flair and unpredictability in the final third. Meanwhile, Gustavo Caballero of Portsmouth represents the lower-league grit, and Miguel Almiron, though now in MLS, remains a talismanic figure with his pace and work rate. This English-based core could give Paraguay a competitive edge, as they are accustomed to high-tempo, physical football.

The Full 26-Man Squad Breakdown

Goalkeepers and Defence

The goalkeeping trio comprises Roberto Junior Fernandez (Cerro Porteno), Orlando Gill (San Lorenzo), and Gaston Olveira (Olimpia). Fernandez is expected to start, bringing experience from Paraguay’s top flight. In defence, Alderete is joined by Junior Alonso (Atletico Mineiro), Fabian Balbuena (Gremio), Juan Jose Caceres (Dinamo Moscow), Jose Canale (Lanus), Gustavo Gomez (Palmeiras), Alexandro Maidana (Talleres), and Gustavo Velazquez (Cerro Porteno). The backline is a mix of seasoned campaigners and robust markers, with Balbuena and Gomez offering leadership.

Midfield and Attack

The midfield features Damian Bobadilla (Sao Paulo), Gustavo Caballero (Portsmouth), Andres Cubas (Vancouver Whitecaps), Matias Galarza (Atlanta United), Diego Gomez (Brighton), Mauricio Magalhaes (Palmeiras), Briaian Ojeda (Orlando City), and Alejandro Romero (Al Ain). This unit balances defensive cover with creative passing. Up front, Miguel Almiron (Atlanta United) headlines alongside Gabriel Avalos (Independiente), Alex Arce (Independiente Rivadavia), Julio Enciso (Strasbourg), Isidro Pitta (Bragantino), Antonio Sanabria (Cremonese), and Ramon Sosa (Palmeiras). The attacking options are versatile, with Almiron and Enciso capable of playing wide or centrally, and Sanabria a proven finisher in Italy.

Group D Challenge and Tournament Outlook

Paraguay’s World Cup campaign begins on 13 June against the USA in a high-stakes opener at 02:00 BST. They then face Turkey and Australia in a group that appears wide open. The USA, as co-hosts, will have fervent home support, but Paraguay’s defensive organisation could frustrate them. Turkey’s technical midfield and Australia’s physicality present contrasting tests. According to BBC Sport, the squad’s balance suggests Paraguay will aim to be compact and hit on the counter, leveraging Almiron’s speed and Enciso’s trickery. The presence of multiple players from European leagues—especially those in England—should help them adapt to the tournament’s intensity. While advancing from the group would be a significant achievement, the team’s blend of youth and experience gives them a genuine chance to cause an upset. The 2026 World Cup could mark the rebirth of Paraguayan football on the world stage.