World Cup 2026: Omar Alderete ruled out of Paraguay’s Round of 16 clash with France

Paraguay will be without defender Omar Alderete for Saturday’s World Cup Round of 16 match against France, with the centre-back continuing his recovery from a knee injury.

The 29-year-old, who also missed Paraguay’s victory over Germany in the Round of 32, has not recovered in time to return for the meeting with Les Bleus in Philadelphia.

His absence represents another defensive setback for Paraguay as they prepare to face one of the tournament favourites in a place in the quarter-finals.

Alderete remains unavailable

Head coach Gustavo Alfaro had hoped to have as many of his senior players available as possible for the knockout encounter, but Alderete will not be part of the squad.

According to ABC, the Sunderland defender remains in rehabilitation following the knee injury that has kept him out of recent action.

Although he was named among the substitutes against Germany, he did not feature during the match and will again be unavailable against France.

His continued absence means Paraguay must once more find a solution at the heart of their defence for one of their biggest matches of the tournament.

Diego Gomez returns

While Alderete remains sidelined, Paraguay have received a boost with the return of Diego Gomez.

The midfielder missed the Round of 32 victory over Germany through suspension but is available again after serving his ban.

His return gives Gustavo Alfaro another option in midfield as Paraguay prepare for a demanding contest against the 2022 World Cup runners-up.

The contrasting availability of Gomez and Alderete means Paraguay welcome back one experienced player while continuing to manage the absence of another.

Alderete played key role in group stage

Before suffering the injury setback, Alderete featured in each of Paraguay’s three Group D matches.

His presence helped the team progress to the knockout rounds before injury interrupted his tournament.

The experienced defender has been an important member of Paraguay’s squad, making his absence notable as the competition reaches its decisive stages.

With rehabilitation continuing, the focus remains on his recovery rather than a return for the France fixture.

Paraguay prepare for France challenge

Paraguay continue their preparations knowing they face one of the strongest teams remaining in the tournament.

France arrive in Philadelphia aiming to continue their World Cup campaign, while Paraguay will look to build on their victory over Germany despite missing one of their first-choice defenders.

The return of Diego Gomez offers encouragement for Gustavo Alfaro, but the continued absence of Alderete means Paraguay must again adapt defensively as they seek a place in the quarter-finals.