Paraguay Takes Major Step Towards World Cup Qualification with Victory Over Chile

Omar Alderete netted his second goal for the senior Paraguayan national team, helping his side climb to third place in the CONMEBOL 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying standings following a victory over Chile at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco.

Chile, who find themselves in a precarious position and at risk of missing out on their third consecutive World Cup, managed to withstand a barrage of attacks with a resolute defensive performance in the opening 15 minutes in the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion.

This early surge of confidence enabled La Roja to create two significant chances. Yet, both Lucas Cepeda and Alexander Aravena failed to find the net, as their attempts went off target.

The game’s first goal seemed imminent in the 28th minute, but Roberto Fernandez made a vital stop with a strong outstretched save at his near post, preventing Cepeda’s shot from sneaking into the corner.

Despite starting brightly and maintaining an offensive mindset, Paraguay could only manage one shot on target during the first half, with Junior Alonso’s header being expertly parried by Brayan Cortes.

It didn’t take long for the hosts to threaten again right after the second half began, as Cortés produced a spectacular save to deny Ramon Sosa.

The breakthrough finally arrived in Paraguay’s favour just before the hour mark. Antonio Sanabria executed a towering header from the penalty spot, setting up Alderete, who fired fiercely into the back of the net from the back post.

Julio Enciso had the opportunity to double the lead as the match progressed, but the Ipswich Town loanee misfired, sending his shot wide from inside the area.

This win on home soil cements Gustavo Alfaro’s improving Paraguayan side as unbeaten in their last seven fixtures (W4, D3) and secures a seven-point cushion in the automatic qualification places for the World Cup.

Conversely, La Roja sits at the bottom of the table, still seeking their first away win in this qualification campaign (D1, L6).