Paraguay delivered a statement win over Uruguay, clinching a 2-0 victory in a high-stakes 2026 World Cup qualifier at Defensores del Chaco Stadium in Asunción. The result propels Paraguay closer to ending a 15-year World Cup drought and shakes up the CONMEBOL standings, with both teams having entered the match tied on points but separated by goal difference.
Matías Galarza opened the scoring in the first half, capitalizing on a rare mistake by Uruguay’s goalkeeper Santiago Mele. The tension escalated late in the match when Ronald Araújo’s foul on Julio Enciso resulted in a penalty. Enciso converted with composure, sealing the win and sending the home crowd into celebration.
Uruguay, missing key players like Federico Valverde and Rodrigo Bentancur due to injuries, struggled to break through Paraguay’s disciplined defense. Despite a strong start and several attacking attempts, Uruguay was repeatedly denied by Paraguay’s goalkeeper Gatito Fernández and an organized back line.
This result marks Paraguay’s first home win over Uruguay since 2007 and extends their home winning streak in World Cup qualifiers to four matches With the qualification race heating up, both teams now face crucial fixtures ahead as the road to the 2026 World Cup intensifies.
