What happened at Silvio Pettirossi Airport?

Paraguay’s Albirroja landed on Monday in Asunción and was greeted by hundreds of supporters chanting the team’s name at the presidential pier. Gustavo Alfaro and his squad, freshly eliminated by France in the round of 16, signed autographs while the crowd applauded nonstop. President Santiago Peña embraced the players, thanked them for the campaign and publicly asked that the Argentine coach stay in charge.

Why does the president insist on Alfaro’s continuity?

Peña said the loss to France was “just the first round, the second comes at the 2030 World Cup.” The message highlighted the desire to build on the historic qualification after a 16‑year absence. Moreover, APF president Robert Harrison sent Alfaro a text stating: “This was only the first round, the second comes at the 2030 World Cup.” The request aims for stability so the generation that experienced the 2026 World Cup can keep progressing.

How did the reception feel for players and fans?

Young fans, many seeing Paraguay at a World Cup for the first time, arrived early at the airport. When the coaching staff appeared, the ovation was so loud it echoed around the area. Some players signed shirts and took photos, forging a direct link with the supporters. The National Civil Aeronautics Directorate opened the pier so the ceremony could be seen, and families accompanied the squad to an improvised stage.

What’s next for the Albirroja after the homecoming?

The team finished its run with a penalty shoot‑out win over Germany and a tight loss to France. Now, with Alfaro’s future under debate, the priority is preparing for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers. In the meantime, the side recalls its last friendly result: Mexico 1‑2 Paraguay (2025‑11‑19), and its recent form reads 2 wins, 0 draws, 3 losses in the last five games, currently on a two‑match winning streak. The next challenge will be the South American qualifying phase, where pressure will be high but the fans’ confidence has already been renewed.