FIFA World Cup 2026: Paraguayan FA chief Robert Harrison hails national team after Round of 16 loss to France
Asuncion, July 5
Paraguayan Football Association President Robert Harrison on Sunday thanked the national football team, coaching staff and supporters after the country's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign came to an end, saying the team would leave the tournament with pride and a commitment to continue developing Paraguayan football.
Paraguay's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a narrow 1-0 Round of 16 defeat to France after Kylian Mbappe's second-half penalty.
Despite the loss, Paraguay earned praise for its disciplined defensive display and resilient run, which included a shock victory over Germany in the previous round.
In a post on X, Harrison expressed gratitude to fans across the country for backing the national team throughout its World Cup journey.
"Today we conclude our participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 with our heads held high and our hearts full of pride. I feel a deep gratitude toward every Paraguayan man and woman who accompanied, believed in, and cheered on this team every step of the way. Your support was the driving force that sustained us until the end," he wrote.
Harrison also praised the players for their commitment and the way they represented the country on football's biggest stage.
"My sincere recognition to the players for their absolute commitment, for representing our country with dignity and passion at the pinnacle of world football. And a special thank you to Professor Gustavo Alfaro and his entire technical staff, for the professionalism, conviction, and dedication with which they built this process," he said.
Reaffirming the association's commitment to the future of the sport, Harrison said Paraguay would continue working to strengthen its football programme.
"We leave with the certainty of having given everything, and with our commitment intact to continue working for the growth of our football. Thank you, Paraguay!" he added.
Paraguay's national football team also thanked its supporters and coaching staff after its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign came to an end, saying the squad leaves the tournament with pride after giving everything for the country's colours.
In a post on X, the official account of the Paraguayan National Football Team reflected on the team's journey at the tournament and expressed gratitude to supporters for standing by the players throughout the campaign.
"Our journey at the FIFA World Cup 2026 comes to an end. It was a path of effort, of dedication, and of shared dreams, where every step we took felt the breath of an entire nation behind this jersey. We remain with the deep pride of having represented the #Albirroja and of having given everything for these colors, holding nothing back," the post said.
The team also thanked fans for their unwavering support in both good times and difficult moments.
"Thank you to every Paraguayan man and woman who was always there, in joy and in adversity, accompanying us with passion and trust. For that and so much more, THANK YOU!" it added.
The national team also acknowledged head coach Gustavo Alfaro and his staff for their contribution to the campaign.
"Our special thanks to Professor Gustavo Alfaro and his entire technical staff for the work, the dedication, and for building this path with conviction and commitment. The story continues... Thank you, Paraguay!" the post concluded.
— ANI
Reader Comments
That defensive display against France was top-notch! Mbappe's penalty was the only difference, but Paraguay's organization and discipline were second to none. Respect to Gustavo Alfaro for building a resilient team. Also taught India that smaller nations can punch above their weight with the right planning. 👏
Such a dignified response from Harrison and the team. They're leaving with their heads held high, and rightfully so. A narrow 1-0 loss to France after beating Germany—that's a story any footballing nation would be proud of. India should take notes on how to build football culture from the ground up.
Honestly, Paraguay showed more heart in this World Cup than many bigger teams. They came, they fought, and they left a mark. The appreciation for the fans is also classy. In India, we have the passion but not the infrastructure. Wish our football authorities learned a thing or two from Paraguay's journey.
The way Paraguay built this campaign—from a shock win over Germany to a narrow loss to France—it's inspiring for any developing football nation. But one criticism: they were maybe too defensive in the knockout stage; could have taken more risks. Still, incredible achievement! 🇵🇾⚽
Kroos and Mbappe were too good, but Paraguay's defense was a wall! As an Indian who follows global football, I have immense respect for how they performed. The gratitude toward fans and staff is exactly how a team should bid farewell. This is real sportsmanship.
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