Paraguay's Projected Lineup for FIFA World Cup 2026 Clash Against Australia

Gustavo Alfaro's side is aiming to secure a place in the next round and will need to field a strong lineup to overcome the Socceroos.

Paraguay will put its FIFA World Cup 2026 hopes on the line against Australia at San Francisco Stadium, knowing that only its best performance will do. La Albirroja is chasing a second victory in Group D, a result that would secure a place in the Round of 32.

PROBABLE LINEUP

Head coach Gustavo Alfaro is expected to deploy a 4-4-2 formation, prioritizing defensive solidity while looking to capitalize on opportunities going forward.

In goal, Orlando Gill is set to retain his place after an impressive display against Turkey, once again serving as Paraguay’s last line of defense.

The back four should feature center-backs Gustavo Gómez and Omar Alderete, flanked by full-backs Junior Alonso and Juan José Cáceres. Alexandro Maidana could provide depth from the bench.

In midfield, Andrés Cubas and Matías Galarza will be tasked with disrupting Australia’s rhythm, while Diego Gómez and Maurício Magalhães are expected to operate on the wings. Magalhães is likely to replace suspended playmaker Miguel Almirón, whose absence leaves a significant void in Paraguay’s attack. Damián Bobadilla, Gustavo Vázquez, Ramón Sosa, Alejandro Gamarra, and José Canale are among the options available to change the game from the bench.

Up front, the tireless Julio Enciso is expected to partner Gabriel Ávalos. Meanwhile, Isidro Pitta and Antonio Sanabria, who started Paraguay’s previous matches, could be called upon as impact substitutes.

WHAT'S AT STAKE FOR PARAGUAY

The South Americans head into the decisive clash in Santa Clara, California, battling Australia directly for second place in Group D.

A victory by two goals or more would be enough for Paraguay to advance as runners-up behind the United States. Should that happen, Alfaro’s side would face the runner-up of Group G on Friday, July 3, at Dallas Stadium.

A draw would leave Paraguay in a strong position to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, although they would then have to wait to learn their opponent.

A defeat, however, would leave qualification hanging in the balance. Paraguay would still have a chance of advancing among the top third-placed teams, but it could also see its World Cup campaign come to an early end if the results elsewhere do not go its way.