Paraguay will face Ecuador in Matchday 17 of the South American 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. While Ecuador has already qualified for the World Cup, Paraguay is close to securing their spot.
Paraguay comes into this match in good form, sitting fifth in the standings with 24 points. They are level with Uruguay and just need one point from their next two matches to qualify for the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Ecuador confirmed their qualification in the last round with a 0-0 draw against Peru. With their spot secured, coach Sebastian Becaccece might use this match to give more opportunities to players who usually don’t play regularly.
Paraguay’s probable lineup
Coach Gustavo Alfaro will miss several key players, including Fabian Balbuena, Mathias Villasanti, Isidro Pitta, and Julio Enciso. Enciso opted out to focus on his club future, while the others are injured.
Mathias Villasanti of Paraguay during a game against Brazil. (Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)
Given the situation, Paraguay’s starting lineup against Ecuador is expected to be: Roberto Fernandez; Juan Caceres, Gustavo Gomez, Omar Alderete, Junior Alonso; Diego Gomez, Andres Cubas, Matias Galarza, Miguel Almiron; Alejandro Romero, Antonio Sanabria.
Ecuador’s probable lineup
Ecuador will be without Alan Franco, who is serving a one-match suspension after receiving a red card against Peru. Despite their qualification, Ecuador is anticipated to present a strong team against Paraguay.
Ecuador’s starting lineup against Paraguay is likely to include: Hernan Galindez; Angelo Preciado, Piero Hincapie, William Pacho, Pervis Estupiñan; Moises Caicedo, Kendry Paez; Pedro Vite, Gonzalo Plata, Nilson Angulo; Enner Valencia.