Paraguay will meet France during the 2026 World Cup group stage, and the South American side will rely on a blend of European experience and South American grit to trouble the holders. Three players in particular are expected to play pivotal roles in that fixture.
Enciso Seeks Redemption in France
Julio Enciso has rebuilt his career in France with Strasbourg after a challenging spell in English football. The forward, nicknamed “La Joya” (The Jewel), previously featured for Brighton in the Premier League, where he scored a memorable strike against Manchester City that drew Puskás Award attention. However, injuries and changes in management limited his influence on the south coast.
The attacker has since found stability in Ligue 1 following his marriage, offering pace and directness in the final third. Enciso has already fulfilled a lifelong dream by appearing at the World Cup, dedicating the achievement to his late grandfather. “I dedicate this to him. He’s surely watching me from heaven,” he said.
Bobadilla Carrying Family Legacy
Unlike his father Aldo, a former goalkeeper, Damián Bobadilla operates as a box-to-box midfielder. The 24-year-old currently plays for São Paulo in Brazil’s top flight after developing at boyhood club Cerro Porteño, where he broke through in 2021.
Bobadilla combines physical presence with composure and intelligent decision-making. He has established himself as a key figure for the Brazilian giants since joining in 2024. The midfielder maintains deep respect for his father’s career, once noting: “My dad didn’t have a cape, but he flew from post to post.”
Cubas Provides the Foundation
Andrés Cubas anchors the midfield with a tenacity that compensates for his modest stature. Standing at 1.65m, the defensive midfielder relies on intelligence, positioning and an uncompromising approach to duels. Born in Argentina, Cubas represented the Albiceleste at Under-20 level before switching allegiance to Paraguay, his mother’s homeland, in fulfilment of a childhood promise.
The team’s structure depends heavily on Cubas, who excels at regaining possession and launching rapid transitions. His ability to break up opposition play while initiating attacks makes him crucial to Paraguay’s tactical balance.
The Challenge Ahead
France will face a Paraguay side that blends individual flair with collective discipline. Enciso offers creativity in attack, Bobadilla provides energy from midfield, and Cubas ensures defensive solidity. How these three perform could determine whether Paraguay can secure a positive result against the reigning champions.