Asunción, Paraguay – A crucial clash looms in the 2026 World Cup South American Qualifiers as a resurgent Paraguay hosts a desperate Chilean side at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco on March 20, 2025.

Paraguay, under the guidance of Gustavo Alfaro, has been on an impressive run, currently occupying 6th place with 17 points, a position that could secure them direct qualification for the World Cup. Their recent victories against powerhouses like Argentina and Brazil have fueled their momentum, and a win against Chile would further solidify their position in the standings. "This match against Chile is a final," declared Alfaro, emphasizing the importance of the encounter.

Conversely, Chile's World Cup aspirations hang by a thread. With only 9 points, they sit in 11th place, and a loss would severely jeopardize their chances of qualifying. Despite a recent uptick in form, their away fixture against Paraguay presents a formidable challenge.

Paraguay will be without key players Gustavo Gómez and Diego Gómez, but they are expected to be adequately replaced by Fabián Balbuena and Damián Bobadilla. The attacking duo of Julio Enciso and Antonio Sanabria will lead their offensive charge.

Chile's hopes hinge on the fitness of Alexis Sánchez, who is battling an injury. While the return of Charles Aránguiz and Fernando Sampedri provides a boost, Sánchez's potential absence could significantly impact their attacking prowess. Chile's anticipated lineup features Felipe Loyola at right-back, a midfield trio of Rodrigo Echeverría, Vicente Pizarro, and Arturo Vidal, with Lucas Cepeda and Alexander Aravena operating on the wings, and Eduardo Vargas leading the attack.

This encounter promises to be a fiercely contested battle, with Paraguay looking to capitalize on their home advantage and Chile fighting tooth and nail to keep their World Cup dreams alive.