Now, unfortunately, the impossible utopia could not be caught, although not by much. In a match where they followed their plan 99.9% well, Paraguay lost only 1-0 to France, one of the top contenders for the 2026 World Cup, due to a penalty goal and was eliminated in the round of 16.
The start of the match was as expected: a European team with total dominance of the actions and a South American team completely locked in defense waiting to counterattack. This tactical approach would yield results for Gustavo Alfaro's team, as in the entire first half, there would only be one dangerous chance for the French: a shot from Ousmane Dembélé in the 38th minute that would deflect off Omar Alderete and go just past the left post.
In the second half, the reality would remain the same, with a proactive France and a defensive Paraguay, although there would be one difference: the interventions of Orlando Gill. While he had not been tested until that moment, the Paraguayan goalkeeper would become key to maintaining the 0-0. One of his most important saves would come in the 54th minute, with a great stop on a long-range shot from Manu Koné.
