Brazil and Paraguay will face off this Tuesday at 8:45 PM ET in São Paulo as part of Matchday 16 of the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Brazil, still trying to rediscover its identity, and Paraguay, eager to keep building momentum, meet in one of the most intriguing matchups of the round.
For Brazil, the challenge is no small task. After leaving Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti took on the difficult mission of restoring the national team’s lost shine. His debut ended in a lackluster draw against Ecuador in Guayaquil, but the team will now look to bounce back and claim all three points at home.
On the other side, Paraguay arrives with confidence. The arrival of Gustavo Alfaro has made a clear difference. The Argentine coach has brought solutions, built trust among his players, and remains unbeaten since taking over. If Paraguay can pull off a win on Brazilian soil, their qualification for the World Cup will no longer feel like a dream—it will become a near certainty.
After a solid 2-0 victory over Uruguay, La Albirroja is more motivated than ever to secure its place in the world’s most important soccer tournament.
see also
Carlo Ancelotti recovers star player as he looks for first win as Brazil coach against Paraguay
Brazil’s projected lineup to host Paraguay
Brazil: Alisson; Alex Sandro, Alexsandro Ribeiro, Marquinhos, Vanderson; Gerson, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães; Vinicius Jr., Richarlison, Estêvão.
Paraguay: Roberto Fernández; Junior Alonso, Omar Alderete, Gustavo Gómez, Juan Cáceres; Matías Galarza Fonda, Diego Gómez, Andrés Cubas; Miguel Almirón, Julio Enciso, Antonio Sanabria.
