Midfielder Damián Bobadilla should be one of the main players in Paraguay’s midfield in the debut of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this Friday (12), against the United States, at the SoFi Stadium, in Inglewood, Los Angeles region. At 24 years old, the São Paulo player arrives as one of Albirroja’s rising names on their return to the tournament after 16 years.

Born on July 11, 2001, in Asunción, Paraguay, Bobadilla was revealed at Cerro Porteño, where he stood out before moving to São Paulo in January 2024 for around US$3 million. In Brazil, he established himself as a versatile midfielder, playing in contention and with good ball output in Series A.

Bobadilla’s rise and tactical role

Bobadilla has played around 20 games for the main team since 2023. In Gustavo Alfaro’s scheme, he acts as a defensive or central midfielder, protecting the defense with Gustavo Gómez and Omar Alderete, while balancing the team for transitions with Diego Gómez and Miguel Almirón. His intensity in marking and physical presence at 1.80m are valued qualities to neutralize the American midfield.

Duel against the USA midfield

The United States debuts at home with a strong midfield, led by Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman. Bobadilla will have the task of containing the actions of the owner of the house, especially his links with Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie whistles the match.

Historical tour of the Albirroja

Paraguay returns to the World Cup after a 16-year absence and seeks to score against the host in Group D, which also includes Australia and Türkiye. Bobadilla symbolizes the new Paraguayan generation with experience in Brazilian football, essential for a competitive campaign.

Recent history shows the Americans beating Paraguay 2-1 in a friendly in 2025. In the World Cup, the weight is greater, and Bobadilla’s control in midfield could be decisive in limiting the host attack.

Bobadilla as a pillar of the Albirroja

Alongside promises such as Diego Gómez and attacking veterans such as Antonio Sanabria and Álex Arce, the midfielder reinforces the team’s tactical balance. A good performance in the debut could mark the beginning of a historic campaign for Paraguay and consolidate their name as a reference in midfield.

The match is scheduled for 10pm (Brasília time). SoFi Stadium is expected to register a large crowd for the group’s opening duel.