Paraguay's manager: We're not here just to participate

Paraguay manager Gustavo Alfaro spoke to the media ahead of his side's opening match at the 2026 World Cup against co-hosts USA in Group D. This is the South Americans' first World Cup appearance since 2010.

"In my opinion, they have already won. After 16 years they qualified when it seemed impossible, when there was no hope," Alfaro said of his players at the pre-match press conference.

The Argentine coach stressed that his team's ambitions go beyond mere participation. "We are not here just to be part of the World Cup. We are here to compete," he added.

Alfaro expects the opening match to be a tough one, with the USA playing on home soil under Mauricio Pochettino. "Of course, it is difficult to face one of the host nations," he said, pointing to the quality of the American players who ply their trade in Europe.