Paraguay advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 as one of the best third-place finishers and arrives with confidence after showing significant improvement throughout the group stage. Following a difficult start, La Albirroja found its greatest strength in defensive organization and will now look to pull off one of the tournament's biggest upsets against four-time world champions Germany.

One of the best pieces of news for head coach Gustavo Alfaro is the return of Miguel Almirón, who served his suspension against Türkiye and is expected to reclaim his role as the team's primary attacking threat. His pace, dribbling ability, and effectiveness on the counterattack provide a major boost for a side that will need to make the most of every opportunity against Germany.

The challenge could hardly be greater. Die Mannschaft comes into the knockout stage after suffering a surprising defeat to Ecuador, a result that ended its perfect run through the group stage. That setback could make the Germans even more dangerous, as they will be eager to respond immediately and keep their World Cup title hopes alive.

Predicted Paraguay Lineup

Formation: 4-2-3-1

12 Orlando Gill
2 Gustavo Velázquez
15 Gustavo Gómez (c)
3 Omar Alderete
4 Juan José Cáceres
26 Alexandro Maidana
14 Andrés Cubas
8 Diego Gómez
23 Matías Galarza
21 Gabriel Ávalos
10 Miguel Almirón

Paraguay Tactical Analysis

Paraguay is expected to stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that helped secure its place in the knockout stage. Under Gustavo Alfaro, the team's identity has been built on defensive organization, tactical discipline, and maintaining a compact shape without the ball. During the group stage, it proved to be one of the most difficult teams to break down, forcing opponents to work hard for every scoring chance.

The center-back pairing of Gustavo Gómez and Omar Alderete will play a crucial role in containing Germany's dangerous attack. Both defenders bring physicality, leadership, and aerial dominance, while Andrés Cubas will be responsible for shielding the back line and disrupting the opposition's buildup in midfield.

With Miguel Almirón back in the lineup, La Albirroja regains its most dynamic attacking player. The winger will lead the counterattacks alongside Diego Gómez and Matías Galarza, looking to exploit the spaces that Germany often leaves behind due to its high defensive line.

The key for Paraguay will be surviving the Germans' early pressure and keeping the match level for as long as possible. If the South Americans can maintain their defensive discipline and capitalize on Almirón's pace in transition, they will have a genuine chance to compete and perhaps produce one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32.

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