Paraguay Coach: Morocco a Difficult Opponent, Will Challenge Any World Cup Foe

Gustavo Alfaro, head coach of the Paraguay national team, discussed Morocco's prospects for the 2026 World Cup, asserting that the "Atlas Lions" represent a formidable opponent for any team.

Speaking at the press conference following Paraguay's 2-1 friendly defeat to the Moroccan national team, Alfaro stated: "Morocco is one of those opponents that I don't doubt for a moment will make things difficult for any team they face in the World Cup."

The coach added: "They possess two very important qualities for such occasions: firstly, they have the ability to find solutions in both boxes, meaning they can score goals, and secondly, they have the capacity to defend very well."

Alfaro continued: "In the World Cup, a team is often judged by its attacking prowess. However, when the tournament reaches advanced stages, defensive organization becomes just as crucial as offense. From my perspective, Morocco is strong in both areas and has a midfield capable of linking the lines excellently."

He went on: "Therefore, I have no doubt that Morocco, despite being outside the media spotlight, is a tough opponent. They have greater experience, more consistency, and a high level of discipline and tactics, especially after achieving fourth place in the last World Cup."

Alfaro concluded his remarks by highlighting the Moroccan national team's future ambitions: "This shows that their natural ambition is to be among the top four again, paving the way to compete for the 2030 World Cup, because this is part of a natural process of team development."