Paraguay Vs Colombia Preview: Los Guaranies' Moment to Rise in the Midst of Big Rotation

JAKARTA - The Conmebol Zone 2026 World Cup qualifiers will pit Paraguay against Colombia. The match will be held at the Defensores del Chaco Stadium on Wednesday, November 23, 2023 at 06.00 a.m. Western Indonesian Time (WIB).

In this match, Paraguay acts as the host and will try to recover after their 0-0 draw against Chile. In the previous match, they struggled to withstand the opponent's attacks even with 10 players.

With the mission to recover after repelling Chile, Paraguay's efforts will not be easy when they meet Colombia later because they will appear without a key player, Miguel Almiron, who was injured while playing for Newcastle United. Therefore, it is predicted that the coach, Daniel Garnero, will carry out a large-scale rotation.

This must also be done because Roberto Rojas is confirmed to be absent due to receiving a red card in the previous match. With this situation, Garnero can't help but also changes in the defense line.

Paraguay's unsatisfactory performance in international matches last October meant that the coach had to make many changes to the squad. Players such as Hector Villalba, Braian Ojeda, Santiago Arzamendia, and Alberto Espinola are no longer brought in, while living legend Oscar Cardozo has returned to the squad after being absent for two years.

Even though they will appear without key players and it is predicted that they will implement a new scheme with rotation, Paraguay's chances of winning are also open. Because they will get additional support from supporters with host status.

On the other hand, facing Colombia is also not an easy thing for Paraguay. The reason is that the opposing team has an impressive record which could be used as a calculation for the hosts.

Colombia started qualifying without defeat in five matches, including three draws. This record shows their toughness, especially in away matches.

However, Colombia did not come to Paraguay's headquarters this time in good conditions. They face serious problems at the back with the absence of defenders such as Santiago Arias, Frank Fabra, and Stefan Medina.

Versatile Juan Cuadrado is also absent, along with Diego Valoyes and Mateo Cassierra in attack. Jefferson Lerma's important role is in doubt after only being a reserve against Brazil.

Another option to keep pressure on Paraguay, Colombia could field Krasnodar striker Jhon Cordoba, who made his debut from the bench against Brazil. They can also play Rafael Santos Borre again to fill in on the front line.