Paraguay face another daunting World Cup test as they prepare to take on France in the last-16 stage this evening. After knocking out Germany via a thrilling penalty shootout, the South Americans’ reward is a clash with the tournament favourites.
Who is in the Paraguay squad?
The squad features a mix of Premier League talent, former and current, and a future Chelsea signing. Here is a look at the Paraguay squad for the World Cup.
Goalkeepers and Defenders
Orlando Gill: The breakout star of Paraguay's World Cup, Gill plays for San Lorenzo in Argentina. His performances have reportedly prompted interest from a host of European sides.
Juan Jose Caceres: An energetic full-back, aged just 20 years old, who provides pace on both ends of the pitch. Caceres plays for Dynamo Moscow.
Gustavo Gomez: Paraguay's captain and defensive leader, at the age of 33, Gomez is considered one of the great South American defenders. He has 91 caps, making him the most experienced player in the squad.
Jose Canale: Another young head at the back, Canale is more of a calm defender than Caceres.
Junior Alonso: A versatile and experienced left-back, who can play centrally or on the left. Alonso plays for Atletico Mineiro in Brazil.
Midfielders
Matias Galarza: A tireless box-to-box midfielder, the 24-year-old is regarded as one of Paraguay's emerging midfield talents. He is currently on loan at Major League Soccer side Atlanta United from Argentine giants River Plate. Scored against Turkey.
Andres Cubas: The team's midfield anchor, Cubas also plays in the MLS, with Vancouver Whitecaps, where he is considered one of the league's most reliable holding midfielders.
Diego Gomez: The first name Premier League fans will know due to his success at Brighton. A dynamic midfielder aged 23, Gomez is one of Paraguay's brightest young stars and the Seagulls pulled off something of a coup to land him.
Forwards
Miguel Almiron: Paraguay's biggest household name, the former Newcastle winger now plies his trade at Atlanta United.
Gabriel Avalos: A veteran target man who will allow the likes of Miguel Almiron and Julio Enciso to get in on the act. He has spent his entire journeyman career in South America and currently plays for Independiente in Argentina, his 14th club.
Julio Enciso: Nicknamed ‘La Joya’, or ‘The Jewel’, for a reason. Enciso is Paraguay's most exciting youngster. He joined Strasbourg last summer and will become a Chelsea player, potentially this summer. Scored against Germany en route to an historic win for his nation.
