Overview

• President Santiago Peña said he could declare a national holiday as soon as Friday if qualification is secured, urging people not to celebrate prematurely.
• Paraguay host Ecuador on Sept. 4 at Defensores del Chaco and then visit Peru on Sept. 9 to close their qualifying campaign.
• A draw or better against Ecuador would seal Paraguay’s place at the 2026 World Cup, according to local reporting.
• Qualification could still be achieved with a defeat depending on other results, including Venezuela or Bolivia failing to win.
• Coach Gustavo Alfaro is guiding a bid for the country’s first World Cup since 2010, and officials have begun planning potential celebrations.