Alfaro earns renewed confidence

Questions had surrounded the future of the coach who guided “La Albirroja” back to the World Cup in the North American edition, following their elimination by France in the round of 16. It was Paraguay’s first World Cup appearance since the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

Announcing the contract extension, Paraguayan Football Association President Robert Harrison wrote on Instagram: “2030, here we go!”

His post was accompanied by a photograph of him alongside 64-year-old Alfaro, who was holding a national team shirt featuring the date of the next global football showpiece.

Paraguay's World Cup campaign

The Argentine coach, who describes himself as a “maker of utopias (miracles)”, will remain at the helm of a team that caused a major upset by eliminating Germany in the round of 32 before narrowly losing to Didier Deschamps’ France in the round of 16.

Following a heated encounter, marked by numerous tough challenges from Paraguayan players, Deschamps expressed regret over insults exchanged during the match. Alfaro, however, defended his players, saying his team’s style of play was characterised by competitiveness.

Paraguay to host 2030 World Cup match

Paraguay will host one group-stage match at the 2030 World Cup, which will mark the centenary of football’s biggest global tournament.

Uruguay and Argentina will also each host one match, while all remaining fixtures will be staged in the three main host countries: Spain, Morocco and Portugal.