As the football world turns its eyes toward North America, anticipation is building for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Among the South American nations looking to make a significant impact is Paraguay. Known for their grit, tactical discipline, and a new generation of exciting talent, “La Albirroja” is shaping up to be a formidable opponent.
Below is an in-depth look at the predicted Paraguay Team Squad and Lineups for World Cup 2026, analyzing the players likely to represent the nation on the global stage.
A New Era for La Albirroja
Paraguay is currently undergoing a fascinating transition. The predicted squad for the 2026 tournament blends the hardened experience of veterans with the explosive energy of youth prospects playing in top leagues across Europe and South America. The focus for the coaching staff will be maintaining Paraguay’s historical defensive solidity while unlocking more creativity in the final third.
Goalkeepers: The Last Line of Defense
The goalkeeper position requires consistency and leadership. For 2026, the battle for the number one shirt is intense.
- Roberto Fernandez (Cerro Porteño): Likely the first choice, offering agility and domestic experience.
- Orlando Gill (San Lorenzo) & Aldo Perez (Guarani): Both provide strong backup options, ensuring depth in the squad.
Defenders: Experience Meets Aggression
Paraguay’s defense has always been its hallmark. The predicted roster features a mix of massive experience in Brazilian football and emerging talent in Europe.
Leading the backline is the indomitable Gustavo Gomez (Palmeiras), whose leadership is vital. He is supported by Junior Alonso (Atletico Mineiro) and the dynamic Blas Riveros. The inclusion of Alexis Duarte (Santos) adds further steel to the center-back options.
Midfielders: Creativity and Engine
This is where the 2026 squad looks most dangerous. The midfield boasts Premier League quality and high-potential youngsters.
Miguel Almiron remains the talisman. Now listed with Atlanta United in this projection, his pace remains a key asset. He is joined by Diego Gomez (Brighton & Hove Albion), a rising star in the Premier League, and Ramon Sosa (Palmeiras). A surprise but exciting inclusion is Diego Leon (Manchester United), signaling a bright future for Paraguayan football.
Forwards: The Hunt for Goals
To advance past the group stages, Paraguay needs goals. The striking options offer a variety of tactical profiles. Julio Enciso (Strasbourg) provides technical brilliance and can play across the front line, while Antonio Sanabria (Cremonese) offers a physical focal point.
Full Predicted Paraguay Squad List 2026
Below is the complete projected roster for the upcoming World Cup cycle.
| Position | Player Name | Current Club |
| GK | Roberto Fernandez | Cerro Porteño |
| GK | Orlando Gill | San Lorenzo |
| GK | Aldo Perez | Guarani |
| DF | Gustavo Gomez | Palmeiras |
| DF | Junior Alonso | Atletico Mineiro |
| DF | Juan Caceres | Dynamo Moscow |
| DF | Blas Riveros | Cerro Porteño |
| DF | Gustavo Velazquez | Cerro Porteño |
| DF | Alan Benitez | Internacional |
| DF | Agustin Sandez | Rosario Central |
| DF | Alexis Duarte | Santos |
| MF | Miguel Almiron | Atlanta United |
| MF | Alejandro Romero Gamarra | Al Ain |
| MF | Ramon Sosa | Palmeiras |
| MF | Diego Gomez | Brighton & Hove Albion |
| MF | Damian Bobadilla | São Paulo |
| MF | Braian Ojeda | Real Salt Lake |
| MF | Matias Galarza | River Plate |
| MF | Diego Gonzalez | Atlas |
| MF | Hugo Cuenca | Genoa |
| MF | Diego Leon | Manchester United |
| MF | Lucas Romero | Recoleta |
| FW | Antonio Sanabria | Cremonese |
| FW | Julio Enciso | Strasbourg |
| FW | Alex Arce | Ind. Rivadavia |
| FW | Ronaldo Martinez | Platense |
Also Read: USA Team Squad for World Cup 2026.
Predicted Starting Lineup (Tactical Analysis)
Based on the roster above, a probable 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation seems likely to maximize the strengths of Almiron and Enciso.
The Starting XI Prediction:
- Goalkeeper: Roberto Fernandez
- Defenders: Blas Riveros, Gustavo Gomez, Junior Alonso, Juan Caceres
- Midfielders: Diego Gomez, Matias Galarza, Miguel Almiron
- Forwards: Ramon Sosa, Antonio Sanabria, Julio Enciso
Key Players to Watch
- Julio Enciso: His flair and ability to shoot from distance make him a game-changer.
- Diego Gomez: A modern box-to-box midfielder crucial for transition play.
- Diego Leon: All eyes will be on the Manchester United prospect to see if he breaks into the starting eleven.
Conclusion
The Paraguay World Cup 2026 squad represents a balanced mix of proven warriors and exciting technical players. With leaders like Gustavo Gomez marshaling the defense and talents like Enciso and Almiron leading the attack, La Albirroja has the potential to be the dark horse of the tournament. As the qualifiers conclude and the tournament approaches, this roster is the one to watch.