Overview
The Paraguay team has only scored 8 goals and conceded 7 goals after 12 matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America. However, they are currently ranked 6th on the rankings and are only 3 points behind Uruguay in 2nd place.
Paraguay beat both Argentina and Brazil, while drawing with Uruguay. They are going through a series of 6 consecutive unbeaten matches and have a chance to extend this form when the next opponent is only Chile.
Chile is currently second to last on the rankings and there are not many opportunities to compete for a ticket to the 2026 World Cup. However, they are showing signs of improving their form under coach Ricardo Gareca.
The two-time Copa America champions have achieved some positive results, earning 4/6 maximum points in their last 2 matches. In the friendly match in February 2025, Chile defeated Panama 6-1. This victory promises to give them more confidence after a series of bad matches.
Despite improving their attack form, defense is still Chile's weak point. They have only kept a clean sheet in 1 of their last 7 matches. Meanwhile, opponent Paraguay is especially dangerous in quick counter-attacks. Paraguay is likely to still give up the game to Chile despite having home advantage.
Chile's recent victories have all come at home, while their away record is still quite poor. Therefore, the trip to Paraguay promises to have many potential difficulties for Gareca's team.
Personnel situation
Paraguay will not have the services of Gustavo Gomez, Santiago Arzamia, Robert Rojas and Richard Sanchez in this call-up for various reasons.
On the other side of the front line, Chile are also without Sebastian Vegas, Mauricio Isla, Eugenio Mena and Erick pulgar.
Expected lineup:
Paraguay: Fernandez, Caceres, Balbuena, Velazquez, Alonso, Salcedced, Enciso, Villasanti, D. Gomez, Almiron, Arce.
Chile: cortes, Wi province, Diaz, Maripan, Escobar, Pizarro, Pavez, Cepeda, Pizarro, Sanchez, Guerra.
The match between Paraguay and Chile takes place at 6:00 a.m. on March 21 (Vietnam time).
