Paraguay's national team returned to Silvio Pettirossi International Airport on Monday July 6, where thousands of fans chanted their name after the historic World Cup 2026 campaign. At 6:20 p.m., the squad led by Gustavo Alfaro stepped off the plane and boarded a shuttle that took them to the reception area, where the crowd gave a thunderous ovation.

How was the welcome experienced?

Supporters, family members and officials gathered near the runway. The most emotional moment came at 6:30 p.m., when players and staff appeared before the fans and signed autographs on an improvised stage. President Santiago Peña hugged several squad members and publicly thanked them for the effort that marked the return to the World Cup after a 16‑year gap.

What did coach Gustavo Alfaro say?

Alfaro, the Argentine tactician, urged the public to protect the flame of Paraguayan football. "These boys lit a flame that Paraguay has always had. Defend that flame, because when this country unites behind a goal it shows nothing is impossible," he declared at the airport. His words resonated with supporters hoping the World Cup momentum would stay alive.

What is the team's recent context?

In the latest friendly, Paraguay beat Mexico 2‑1 on November 19 2025, a win that boosted the squad's confidence. Recent form reads 2 W‑0 D‑3 L over the last five matches, with a two‑game winning streak that arrived right after the World Cup.

What does this comeback mean for the future?

Returning to the World Cup finals after 16 years revives hope for a generation aiming to cement itself in international tournaments. The massive turnout at the airport signals popular support that could translate into greater investment and better facilities for local football. Moreover, the presence of the president and officials suggests institutional commitment to push the Albirroja toward the next qualification cycle.

The atmosphere in Asunción was marked by a mix of pride and melancholy: pride for having returned to the world stage and melancholy for the narrow loss to France, which eliminated the team in the round of 16. Yet the ovation at the airport made it clear that Paraguayan passion remains undimmed.