"You made us feel proud to be Paraguayan": President Pena salutes team after FIFA World Cup exit
Philadelphia, July 5
Paraguayan President Santiago Pena paid an emotional tribute to the national team following its FIFA World Cup 2026 exit, praising the players for their fighting spirit after a narrow 0-1 defeat to France in the Round of 16.
In a post on X after the match, Pena wrote, "Thank you for everything, @Albirroja! You are lions, warriors until the last minute. You gave your all on the pitch and made us feel proud to be Paraguayan, and the entire world felt it. Today, a whole country applauds you and waits for you with open arms. Thank you for representing our grit (garra), our passion, and the spirit of a people that never gives up."
Paraguay's World Cup campaign came to an end at Lincoln Financial Field after Kylian Mbappe converted a second-half penalty to send France into the quarter-finals, where Les Bleus will face Morocco.
Despite the defeat, Paraguay once again impressed with a disciplined defensive display against one of the tournament favourites. Having already stunned Germany in the previous round, the South Americans frustrated France for long periods with their compact shape and relentless work rate.
France dominated possession from the outset, controlling more than 80 per cent of the ball during the early stages, but Paraguay's organised defence restricted Didier Deschamps' side to limited opportunities. Julio Enciso spearheaded the pressing effort, while goalkeeper Orlando Gill remained largely untroubled in the opening half.
The first 45 minutes produced no shots on target from either side, making it only the third FIFA World Cup knockout match since 1966 to reach half-time without a single effort on target. Tempers also flared midway through the half following a challenge on Mbappe by Andres Cubas, leading to a mass confrontation involving players from both teams.
France finally found the breakthrough in the 66th minute after substitute Desire Doue won a penalty by weaving past three defenders before being fouled by Diego Gomez. Mbappe calmly converted from the spot despite Paraguay's attempts to delay the restart.
Paraguay continued to push until the final whistle and nearly forced a late breakthrough, while Gill denied Mbappe a second goal with an excellent double save in stoppage time.
Although their memorable World Cup run ended in the Round of 16, Paraguay departed the tournament with widespread admiration, earning praise from their president for embodying the resilience and determination that defined their campaign.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm getting emotional reading this. For a small country like Paraguay to take on football giants like Germany and France and almost pull it off - that's real garra indeed. President Pena's words remind me of how Ratan Tata praised our hockey players after a tough loss. It's the heart that matters, not just the scoreline. Paraguay has won many fans in India today! 🙏⚽
As someone who follows international football, I find it interesting how a defensive strategy can frustrate even world-class teams. But I do wonder if Paraguay could have been more adventurous - France had 80% possession, which is just too much. Still, credit to them for taking Germany out and pushing France to the limit. President's message is classy.
In India, we understand this feeling very well. Whether it's our hockey team or cricket team, we celebrate the spirit of those who fight till the end. Paraguay's story is like our own underdog tales - they came, they competed, they earned respect. President Pena has shown great leadership by acknowledging this. Game shouldn't be measured only in wins and losses. 🇮🇳🤝🇵🇾
Zero shots on target in the first half and barely one attempt for 45 minutes? That's not defensive discipline, that's being outplayed completely. I appreciate the patriotism but let's be honest - France was held back by their own poor finishing, not Paraguay's brilliance. The president's praise is nice for morale but shouldn't mask tactical limitations. Still, congratulations to Paraguay for making it this far.
K Kavya N