Matchday 2 of Group D at the FIFA World Cup 2026 brings a high-stakes showdown between Paraguay and Türkiye at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Both teams enter the contest under pressure after suffering defeats in their opening matches, making this encounter a pivotal opportunity to stay in the race for a place in the Round of 16.

The South American nation returned to the World Cup after a 16-year absence with renewed optimism thanks to the work of Gustavo Alfaro. However, that excitement quickly turned into disappointment following a defeat against the United States, a result that now forces La Albirroja to deliver a much stronger performance.

Gustavo Alfaro Considers Changes Ahead of Key Match

The Argentine coach could make several adjustments to the lineup that started Paraguay’s opening game of the tournament. Orlando Gill is expected to remain in goal, while the defensive line would feature Juan Cáceres, Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, and Junior Alonso, although Alexandro Maidana remains an option at left back.

In midfield, Andrés Cubas and Diego Gómez are likely to continue as key figures in maintaining balance and structure. One of the biggest selection questions surrounds Damián Bobadilla, who could make way for Matías Galarza in an effort to add more energy and creativity in the middle of the park.

Paraguay’s projected lineup is: Orlando Gill; Juan Cáceres, Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, Junior Alonso; Andrés Cubas, Diego Gómez; Julio Enciso, Matías Galarza, Miguel Almirón; Isidro Pitta.

Enciso and Almirón Lead the Attack

Much of Paraguay’s attacking hopes will rest on the shoulders of Julio Enciso and Miguel Almirón, two dynamic players capable of creating chances, breaking defensive lines, and driving the team forward in transition.

Meanwhile, Isidro Pitta could be one of the notable changes in attack. His physical presence and strength in the air may provide a different dimension against a Turkish defense that showed vulnerabilities in its opening loss to Australia.

On the opposite side, Türkiye will rely on rising stars such as Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız, meaning the squad coached by Gustavo Alfaro must remain focused for the full 90 minutes.

With both teams still searching for their first points of the tournament, this matchup promises to be one of the most intense contests in Group D. For Paraguay, a victory would put them back in control of their destiny and move them one step closer to the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

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